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PROCLAMATIONS
FOR
THANKSGIVING,
ISSUED BY THE
Continental CD0nj)ress, ^ns't SKas^ington,
BY
THE NATIONAL AND STATE GOVERNMENTS
ON THE PEACE OF 1815,
AND BY THE
GOVERNORS OF NEW YORK
SINCE THE INTRODUCTION OF THE CUSTOM ;
WITH THOSE OF THE
GOVERNORS OF THE SEVERAL STATES
IN 18 5 8.
WITH AN HISTORICAL INTRODUCTION AND NOTES.
ALBANY :
MUNSELL & ROWLAND, IS STATE STREET.
.1858.
I
PREFACE.
rr^HERE is an official document, issued by Exe-
cutive Authority, in accordance with a
" time-honored custom," and for a purpose that
appeals to the religious and moral sentiments
of the people, which finds no place in our
public records, and, committed annually to the
newspaper press, is soon lost to the public
generally, with the fleeting items of the cur-
rent news.
It contains no imperative order, and its ob-
servance is enforced by neither rewards nor
penalties; but like a Herald of Peace, it in-
vites us to lay aside the cares of life, and in
good will towards all men and humble grati-
tude to the Benign Giver of All Blessings, to
acknowledge with becoming reverence, and in
a manner approved by our own consciences,
our obligations for the many blessings of life.
IV PREFACE.
Whatever tends to strengthen the ties of
kindred and friendship, or to promote offices
of kindness and charity, claims the attention
and favor of all good citizens ; and among the
very few usages which deserve the title of
National Customs, our Thanksgiving festival
may in this sense be ranked as first. As such,
its origin and history are worthy of inquiry,
and as an act of Civil Authority, the Procla-
mation for its observance may be deemed enti-
tled to a more permanent form of record than
the casual chances of the periodical press.
The in-gathering of the fruits of the earth,
has from time immemorial, and among all
nations, been a season of gladness ; and with
such as possessed definite views of their obli-
gations to the Unseen Providence that governs
the Universe, has been accompanied by such
forms of devotion as were deemed most appro-
priate to express their gratitude for this bounty,
and their dependence for its continuance. In
like manner, special instances of national suc-
cess, of preservation from impending calami-
ties, or of relief from grievous afflictions, have
, been made the subjects of such form of Thanks-
giving as the occasion might suggest, and
calamities have been sought to be averted or
PREFACE. V
removed by Public Fasting and Prayer. Among
most civilized countries these occasions have
been marked by public ordinances directing
the time and manner of observance.*
We find at an early period of New England
history, that special occasions of prosperity or
calamity, were continually ascribed to the
smiles or frowns of Providence, and often made
the occasion of Public Thanksgiving or Fast;
and the tone of religious sentiment which pre-
vailed among the early Colonists, led in the
infancy of their settlement, to the annual ob-
* Of the occasional Thanks-
givings appointed by author-
ity, in Great Britain, in mo-
dern times, may be noticed
one held January 13, 1814, on
account of the victories gain-
ed over Napoleon; and an-
other Jan. 18, 1816, upon the
restoration of peace. The Go-
vernor of Upper Canada or-
dered a Thanksgiving to be
observed Feb. 6, 1838, upon
the success of government
in suppressing the patriot re-
volt; and a Thanksgiving was
held throughout all India, on
the 16th of Ju]y,1854, on ac-
count of the success of tho
British troops. The 5th of
November is marked in tho
English Church Service as an
occasion for Public Thanks-
giving, in commemoration of
the discoverv of the Gun-
powder Plot in 1605, and the
29th of May, for the restora-
tion of Charles II, in 1660.
The anniversary of the ac-
cession of the reigning sove-
reign to the throne, is also a
solemn day.
VI
PEEFACE.
servance of each. The former was usually
in autumn, and the latter in spring.*
The practice was not limited to the English
* The earliest Thanksgiv-
ing on record in the Colony
of Massachusetts, was held
on the 2 2d of February, 1631,
under circumstances that are
recorded as follows:
" But now as the winter
" came on, provisions began
"to be very scarce, upon the
" grounds aforesaid, and peo-
" pie were necessitated to
" live upon clams, and mus-
" cles, and ground-nuts, and
" acorns, and these got with
"much diflBculty in the win-
" ter-time. Upon which, peo-
" pie were very much tired
" and discouraged, especially
"when they heard that the
" Governor himself had the
" last batch of bread in the
"oven; and many were the
"fears of people that Mr.
" Pearce, who was sent to
" Ireland to fetch provisions,
" was cast away, or taken by
" pirates. But God, who de-
' lights to appear in greatest
' straits, did work marvel-
' lously at this time; for be-
' fore the very day appointed
' to seek the Lord by Fast-
' ing and Prayer, about the
' month of February or March
'in comes Mr. Pearce, lad-
' en with provisions. Upon
' which occasion the day of
' Fast was changed, and or-
' dered to be kept as a day
'of Thanksgiving; which
' provisions were by the Go-
' vernor distributed unto the
' people, proportionable to
' their necessities." — Young's
Chronicles of Massachusetts, p.
385.
Between this date and 1685,
the records of the Colony
show twenty-nine orders for
Thanksgiving, several of
which are for specific, but
most of them for general
causes of gratitude to Pro-
vidence.
PREFACE.
VU
Colonies, but was in use in New Netherlands
upon extraordinary occasions of public rejoic-
ing.* In the Colony of New York, under the
English government, occasional Thanksgivings
were held.f
At an early period in the Revolution, the
Continental Congress adopted the custom of
invoking the Divine Favor by Public Fasting,
Humiliation and Prayer, and the days thus
appointed were generally in the spring months.
It always suspended its own sessions upon the
days thus set apart, when the public exigencies
would allow. ^
* Gov. Kieft ordered a
Public Thanksgiving' to be
held in February, 1644, upon
the occasion of a victory over
the Indians in Westchester
county, and in September,
1645, upon the conclusion of
a peace with these people.
t See pages 1-3.
'I Fast Days were appoint-
ed during the Revolution:
Thursday, July 20, 1775, by
resolution of June 12; Fri-
day, May 11, 17T6, by reso-
lution of March 16; day to
be fixed by the several states
by resolution of December
11, 1716; Wednesday, April
22, 1778, by resolution of
March 7; Thursday, May 6^
1779, by resolution of March
20; Wednesday, April 6,
1780, by resolution of March
11; Thursday, May 3, 1781,
by resolution of March 20;
Thursday, April 25, 1782, by
resolution of March 19.
Vlll PREFACE.
A similar recommendation was issued once
by President Washington, in May, 1792, by
request of Congress; twice during the admi-
nistration of the elder Adams, and on several
occasions since.*'
The Journals of the Continental Congress
contain eight several appointments of Thanks-
giving days, and the resolutions expressing the
wishes of Congress upon this subject, were in
the form of recommendations to the Executive
heads of the State governments, reciting in
appropriate terms, the occasion which prompt-
ed the observance, and the favors which a
Benign Providence had conferred upon them
as a people. With one exception, Congress
suspended business upon the days it had ap-
pointed for Thanksgiving.
Governor Jay, at the beginning of his admi-
nistration, issued a Proclamation, recommend-
ing a day of Thanksgiving and Prayer, after the
custom of the New England States, but the ad-
vice did not receive general attention or public
favor. His political opponents seized upon the
occasion, to represent it as a contrivance to en-
* See Journals of House 1*192; Life and Writings of
of Representatives, May 1, John Adams, ix, 169-112.
PREFACE. IX
list the religious prejudices of the public in his
favor, and the opposition which it met dis-
suaded him from repeating it.
Although thus left without a public appoint-
ment, the People of this State were not entirely
without guidance in the celebration of this
observation. The Book of Common Prayer of
the Protestant Episcopal Church, ratified in
1789, directs the first Thursday of November
(unless another day be appointed by the civil
authorities) " to be observed as a day of Thanks-
giving to Almighty God, for the fruits of the
earth, and all other blessings of his Merciful
Providence," and this day was accordingly
observed by those of this denomination, in the
absence of Executive appointment.
Many pious families in this State, of other
denominations, were accustomed to observe
the day appointed for Thanksgiving by the
Governor of Connecticut, and several Christian
denominations had adopted the custom of ap-
pointing a Thanksgiving Day, by the officers of
churches, associations, presbyteries, and simi-
lar ecclesiastical bodies. The day thus set
* Hammond's Political His- New York, 196; Jay's Life
tory of New York, i, 446; and Writings, i, 385.
Jenkins' Political History of
B
X PREFACE.
apart, was not niiifbrm throughout the State,
and of course received no regard except among
the sect by whom it was appointed.f
The official announcement of peace between
f Tl)c following' is an ex- " God, to render thanks to
ample of these appointments " his great name for all the
by religious bodies. They " blessings of the year past,
were generally published in " particularly for the eifusion
the newspapers, and read in "of his holy spirit, poured
churches: "out in many parts of our
"THANKSGIVING. "land, and more especially
"Whereas tlie Northern " upon our colleges and semi-
" Associated Presbytery of "naries of literature, which
"the State of New York, in "gives a hopeful prospect of
"connection with other As- "the advancement of the
" sociations, have agreed an- " Redeemer's kingdom in our
" nuall}' to observe the last "land.
"Thursday in November, as "Signed by order of the
" a day of Public Thanksgiv- " Presbytery,
"ing, this is to notify all "Beriah Hotchkin,
" the churches under the care " Moderator.
" of said Presbytery, and the "Greenville, Nov. 6, 1815."
" congregations connected Perhaps tlie most remark-
" with them, that Thursday, able Thanksgiving custom on
" the thirtieth day of the pre- record, prevailed in the towns
"sent month, will be -set of Southampton and East-
" apart, through the bounds hampton upon Long Island,
"of said Presbytery, as a Montauk Point consists of
" day of Public Thanksgiving some nine thousand acres of
"and Prayer to Almighty land, owned by numerous
PREFACE. XI
the United States and Great Britain, was re-
garded by Congress and our State Legislature
as an event demanding a public expression of
gratitude to the Supreme Ruler of the Universe,
and at the joint suggestion of the Executive
and Legislative authorities, it was unanimously
decided to celebrate the happy event by a
Solemn Thanksgiving.
Governor De Witt Clinton soon after his en-
trance upon office, renewed the experiment
which a predecessor had tried without success.
The appointment received general approbation,
and the practice has been since annually fol-
lowed, sanctioned by no law but precedent,
and sustained only by popular favor.
proprietors in these towns, from Montauk, should be ob-
and used as a comraou pas- served as a day of Thanks-
turage for their stock. The giving-. The first appoint-
time of driving their herds ment by Governor Clinton
upon the Point, and of taking happened to fall upon a dif-
them home to winter, was ferent date, and it was seri-
fixed annually at town meet- ously discussed, whether the
ing, and it came to be a rule, substitute should be accept-
from a period beyond which ed, or whether the secret in-
the memory of man runneth tention might not be to un-
not to the contrary, that the settle and break up the cus-
Thursday of the week follow- torn altogether,
ing the return of the cattle
Xll
PREFACE.
It has become usual for the Mayor of New-
York City, to second the appointment of
Thanksgiving Day made by the Governor, in a
Proclamation of similar import,'^ and on seve-
* The following- is his Pro-
clamation for the present
year:
" PROCLAMATION.
" Whereas the Governor
of the State, in accordance
with a time-honored and
most laudable custom, has
appointed Thursday, the
eighteenth day of Novem-
ber instant, to be observed
as a day of General Thanks-
giving and Prayer, now I,
Daniel F. Tiemann, Mayor
of the City of New York,
do hereby earnestly recom-
mend all good citizens to
unite on that day in Praise
and Thanksgiving to Al-
mighty God for all the great
and manifest blessings he
has bestowed in his good
providence on our city and
its inhabitants during the
past year. The commercial
panic which recently pros-
■ trated the trade and indus-
' try of our city has subsid-
' ed, and again the merchant
' is busy, the mechanic em-
' ployed, and the laborer has
■ work to do. The harvests
' of the country have been
' plenteous, affording to our
' people the fruits of the
earth in abundance, so that
' all can enjoy them. Pesti-
lence has not been permit-
ted to visit us, but beyond
' any previous season has
' our city enjoyed the bless-
ings of health. And even
'the strifes of party have
' served to the maintenance
' of that Union by which we
' as a people are secured in
■ our civil freedom and the
' right to worship our Creat-
or according to the dictates
' of our own consciences.
' For these and other mani-
fold blessings and mercies,
PREFACE.
Xlll
ral occasions the Bishops, of the Episcopal and
Catholic churches, have issued circulars to
their several charges, prescribing forms of vv^or-
ship suitable to the occasion, and recommend-
ing the observance of the appointed day, with
becoming religious solemnities.
This custom is now observed in nearly every
State and organized Territory in the Union,*
" it is our duty at all times
" to be thaukful to the Giver
" of All Good, but especially
" on a day thus set apart by
" the Chief Magistrate of the
" State for religious worship
*' and praise.
"I would also recommend
"that on this occasion those
" who have been favored
" with prosperity, should im-
" part of their abundance to
" the needy, and thus by con-
" tributing to their comfort,
" and alleviating their dis-
" tress, honor their Creator,
" whose nature is divine be-
" neficence.
" In witness whereof, I
" have hereunto set my name
" and affixed the Mayoralty
"Seal of the City of
[l.s.] " New York, this ele-
" venth day of Novem-
" ber, in the year of our Lord
" one thousand eight hundred
" and fifty-eight.
"Daniel F. Tiemann."
* Diligent efforts have been
made to obtain all the Pro-
clamations for Thanksgiving
issued by the several State
and Territorial Governors
for 1858, but still none have
been received from Virgi-
nia, Kentucky, Louisiana,
Arkansas, Texas and Cali-
fornia, nor with the excep-
tion of Nebraska and Minne-
sota, from any of the Terri-
tories. In some of these, it
XIV
PREFACE.
and an examination of the following pages will
show, that the Proclamation is commonly is-
sued from the office of the Secretary of State
under the Great Seal. In some cases it is or-
dered by advice of the Council, and in New
York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania simply
upon authority of the Governor under his Privy
Seal, and attested by his Private Secretary.
In some of the States, Thanksgiving Day is
sanctioned by the Statute law, and Courts may
not be held or arrests made on the day appoint-
is believed, none were issued.
In Virginia, the only one
ever issued was that of Gov-
ernor Johnson, appointing a
Thanksgiving to be held No-
vember 15, 1855. The May-
ors of cities in that State
have within four or five years
adopted the custom of issu-
ing a Proclamation for this
purpose.
In his Annual Message to
the Legislature of Virginia,
in 1851, Gov, Wise alluded
to requests which had been
made to him by various per-
sons of different religious de-
nominations to appoint a day
for this observance, which
he had declined, because
" the State officers have no
" authority or power to in-
"terfere in religious mat-
" ters belonging exclusively
" to private individuals and
" church organizations." He
added: "two of the worst
" evils of the times are poli-
" tical religion and religious po-
"lilies. I am not constituted
" and appointed to handle
" God's holy things, and I
" will not dare, hypocritic-
" ally and cantingly, to huck-
" ster them in the market of
" popularity among men.'^
PREFACE. XV
ed. Wherever the practice prevails, schools,
public offices, banks, and places of business
generally are closed, at least for a part of the
day, and religious services are held among
most if not all regularly organized denomina-
tions. The discourses of the Clergy are upon
these occasions often characterized by a freedom
of range upon historical reminiscences or other
secular subjects that might, by the more scru-
pulous, be deemed out of place upon the Sab-
bath Day.
Among firemen, Thanksgiving day is often
signalized by public reviews, and among our
citizen soldiery, by military parades and excur-
sions for target shooting; generally terminating
in a ball or other festive entertainment in the
evening. The managers of places of public
amusement, counting upon extra patronage,
prepare to offer attractions beyond the ordinary
programme of the season, and the various
pastimes of the public, athletic games, shoot-
ing for prizes, and similar diversions, gather
each their crowds of pleasure seeking votaries.
However dissimilar these various modes of
keeping Thanksgiving may be, there is at least
one observance in which they agree, and few
persons possessing the means, seldom fail to
XVI PREFACE.
provide a sumptuous repast on that day. To
those prevented by poverty the hand of charity
is in many cases extended and the poor inmate
of the almshouse, the asylum and the prison,
looks forward to the appointed day, with a
reasonable prospect of an extra indulgence in
his bill of fare.
The good old New England custom of a
family gathering under the paternal roof, upon
Thanksgiving day, is to a great degree still
limited to the Eastern States,* and annually
calls thousands from distant parts to meet be-
loved kindred around the family hearth, where
amid the scenes and associations of childhood,
" When gathered home from freshei* homes around,
The old man's children keep the holiday."
The New England Thanksgiving festival has
been a favorite theme of the poet and the essay-
ist, but the sympathies which it awakens are
of a character to be felt rather than described.
* It is estimated that at York occurred one week ear-
least ten thousand persons lier than in most of those
from New York city alone States none were detained at
returned to their early homes home from this cause and
in New England to spend doubtless many persons en-
Thanksgiving day in 1858. joyed both festivals.
As the appointment in New
PKEFACE. XV 11
Whether regarded in its social, domestic or
religious character, this custom may be con-
sidered beneficial in its influences; and from
its cultivating the generous and sympathizing
instincts of our nature, and promoting kindly
offices toward one another, it maybe considered
as a salutary check upon the cold and selfish
tendencies of unrelaxing application to business
and the inordinate pursuit of gain.
Franklin B. Hough.
Albany, December 15, 1858.
--<■■♦ ♦■■»-■»"
ERRATA.
Page 1. 4th line from bottom, for " events " read " event."
" 25. Last line, for "Williamson" read "Thomson."
" 29. 3d line from bottom, for "seven" read "four."
C
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
Under the Colonial Government of New York,
Proclamations for Thanksgiving w^ere occasion-
ally issued upon special occasions of public
rejoicing, but not annually, as in the New
England Colonies. The defeat of Baron Dies-
kau, and his French and Indian forces, by the
Provincial troops, under Sir William Johnson, in
September, 1755, was an event of great import
ance, from the immediate relief which it af-
forded to the frontiers, and of still greater, from
the confidence with which it inspired the Colo-
nies, who, without aid from the mother country,
had, in this campaign, accomplished more than
all the regular armies, which the British Go-
vernment had the same year employed against
Canada. The announcement of the victory
was followed by a Thanksgiving, appointed by
the Governor.
The most important events of that period,
was the conquest of Canada, which was com-
pleted by the surrender of Montreal, September
8th, 1760. The Colonies relieved from the
L TII2VNKSGIYING PROCLAMATIONS.
burden of expensive wars, and the frontiers
from the dread of Indian massacre, had abun-
dant cause for rejoicing, and the acting Go-
vernor of New York directed the event to be
celebrated by Tlianksgiving. His Proclama-
tion was as follows :
By the Hon. Cadvvallader Golden, Esquire,
President of his Majesty's Council and
[l. s.] Commander in Chief of the Province of
New York and the Territories depending
thereon in America.
A PROCLAMATLON.
XIThereas it hath pleased Almighty God to
^ " continue his divine presence and blessing
with the forces of our gracious sovereign, em-
ployed in North America, and enable them not
only to recover the Territories of which the
French had unjustly and perfidiously possess-
ed themselves, but also to reduce the whole
country of Canada to the dominion of his Mar
jesty whereby the northern Colonies are hap-^
ily delivered from the calamities of a cruel
and barberous war, and have opened to them
the most agreable prospect of lasting tranquility
and the uninterupted enjoyment of their civil
and religious liberties: All which great and
unmerited blessings demand our public and
grateful acknowledgements, I have therefore
thought fit, by and with the advice of his Mar-
jesty's Council to ordain and I do ordain and
THANKSGIVING i'llOCLAMATlONS. 6
appoint, that Thursday the third day of October
instant, be set apart and observed throughout
this Province as a day of Public Thanksgiving
to Almighty God for these signal successes,
and all his Majesty's subjects within this Go-
vernment are strictly commanded to observe the
said day with the utmost decency and rever-
anee, abstaining from all servile labor and de-
voutly attending divine service which is hereby
directed to be solemnly performed in all church-
es and chappells and other places of publick
Avorship, of which previous notice is to be given
by publishing this Proclamation in the several
congregations : and I do recommend to all minis-
ters of the gospel that they offer up their earnest
and devout prayers to Almighty God for the
continuation of his blessing and protection on
his Majesty's person and illustrious family, and
for such further success to his arms as may
secure a safe and lasting peace.
Given under my hand and seal at arms at
Fort George, in the city of New York, the
first day of October 1760, in the 34th
year of the reign of our sovereign Lord,
George the Second, by the grace of God
of Great Britain, France and Ireland,
King, Defender of the Faith, and so forth.
CADWALLADER GOLDEN.
By his honour's command,
God save the King,
G. W, Banyar, D. Secy.
4 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
EEYOLUTIONAEY PERIOD.
[The success of tlie American arms at Saratoga,
among other acts of public rejoicing, led to the ap-
pointment, in Continental Congress, of a Committee, con-
sisting of Samuel Adams, Richard Henry Lee and Daniel
Roberdeau, " to prepare a recommendation to the several
States, to set apart a day for Thanksgiving, for the sig-
nal success lately obtained over the enemies of these
United States." On the following day they brought in
a report, which was taken into consideration and agreed
to, as follows :*]
"C^ORASMUCH as it is the indispensible duty of
-*- all men to adore the superintending provi-
dence of Almighty God; to acknowledge with
gratitude their obligation to him for benefits
received, and to implore such farther blessings
* The Commander-in-Chief's " rects that the army remain
Orderly Book, dated Valley "in its present quarters; and
Forge, December 11, 1117, "that the chaplains perform
has the following entry: "divine service with their
" To-morrow being the day " several corps and brigades ;
"set apart by the honorable " and earnestly exhorts all of-
" Congress for Public Thanks- "ficers and soldiers, whose
" giving and praise, and duty "absence is not indispensa-
" calling us devoutly to ex- " bly necessary, to attend
" press our grateful acknow- *' with reverence the solcmni-
" ledgments to God for the " ties of the day." — Sparhs's
" manifold blessings he has Life and Writings of Wash-
"granted us, the general di- ington, Vol. v, jp. 124.
THANKSGIVING PllOCLAMATIONS. 5
as they stand in need of; and it having pleased
him in his abundant mercy not only to con-
tinue to us the innumerable bounties of his
common providence, but also smile upon us in
the prosecution of a just and necessary war, for
the defence and establishment of our unalien-
able rights and liberties: particularly in that
he hath been pleased in so great a measure to
prosper the means used for the support of our
troops and to crown our arms with most signal
success : it is therefore recommended to the
legislative or executive powers of these United
States to set apart Thursday the 18th day of
December next, for Solemn Thanksgiving and
praise ; that with one heart and one voice the
good people may express the grateful feelings
of their hearts, and consecrate themselves to
the service of their Bivine Benefactor; and that
together with their sincere acknowledgments
and offerings, they may join the penitent con-
fession of their manifold sins, whereby they
had forfeited every favor ; and their humble
and earnest supplication that it may please God,
through the merits of Jesus Christ, mercifully
to forgive and blot them out of remembrance ;
that it may please him graciously to afford his
blessings on the Governments of these States,
respectively, and prosper the Public Council of
the whole ; to inspire our Commanders, both by
land and sea, and all under them, with that
wisdom and fortitude, which may render them
6 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
fit instruments, under the Providence of Al-
mig-hty God, to secure for these United States
the greatest of all blessings, independence and
peace ; that it may please him to prosper the
trade and manufactures of the people, and the
labor of the husbandman, that our land may
yield its increase ; to take schools and semi-
naries of education, so necessary for cultivating
the principles of true liberty, virtue and piety,
under his nurturing hand, and to prosper the
means of religion, for the promotion and en-
largement of that Kingdom which consisteth
in righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy
Ghost.
And it is further recommended, that servile
labour and such recreation as, though at other
times innocent, may be unbecoming the pur-
pose of this appointment, be omitted on so
solemn an occasion.
!
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 7
[Letter to Gov. George Clinton, enclosing the reso-
lutions of Congress.]
YoRKTOwN, Pennsylvania, )
1st November, 1777. )
ir:
The arms of the United States of America
having been bles'd in the present campaign
with remarkable success. Congress have re-
solved to recommend that one day, Thursday,
the ISth December next, be set apart, to be ob-
served by all the inhabitants throughout these
States, for a General Thanksgiving to Almighty
God. And I have it in command to transmit
to you the enclosed extract, from the minutes
of Congress for that purpose.
Your Excellency will be pleased to take the
necessary measures for carrying the resolve into
effect, in the State in which you preside. You
will likewise find enclosed, a certified copy of
a minute, which will shew your Excellency
the authority under which I have the honor of
addressing you.
I am, with great esteem and regard, sir,
your Excellency's most obedient and
most humble servant.
HENRY LAURENS,
President in Congress.
His Excellency, Gov. Clinton.
I
8 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
[The Chaplains of Congress were, on the 7th of No-
vember, 1778, ordered to prepare and report a recom-
mendation to the several States to set apart the 30th
day of December following as a day of General Thanks-
giving throughout the United States. On the 17th of
November, the recommendation was submitted, which
being amended, was as follows :]
"Tt having pleased Almighty God, through the
-*- course of the present year, to bestow many
great and manifold mercies on the people of
these United States; and it being the indispens-
ible duty of all men gratefully to acknowledge
their obligations to him for benefits received ;
Resolved, That it be and hereby is recom-
mended to the legislative or executive authority
of each of the said States to appoint Wednes-
day, the 30th of December next, to be observed
as a day of public Thanksgiving and praise ; that
all people may with united hearts, on that day,
express a just sense of his unmerited favour ;
particularly in that it hath pleased him by his
overruling providence to support us in a just
and necessary war, for the defence of our rights
and liberties, by affording us seasonable sup-
plies for our armies ; by disposing the heart of
a powerful monarch to enter into an alliance
with us, and aid our cause,* by defeating the
* General Washington an- extract from his Or^er/3/^00^,
ticipated the Thanksgiving' dated May 6, 11*18:
upon this occasion by several "It having pleased the
months. The following is an "Almighty Ruler of the Uni-
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
9
councils and evil designs of our enemies, and
giving us victory over their troops ; and by the
continuance of that union among these States
which, by his blessing, will be their future
strength and glory.
And it is further recommended, that, to-
gether with devout Thanksgiving, may be
joined a penitent confession of our sins, and
humble supplication for pardon, through the
merits of our Saviour, so that, under the smiles
of heaven, our public councils may be directed,
our arms by land and sea prospered, our liberty
and independence secured, our schools and
seminaries of learning flourish, our trade be re-
verse to defend the cause of
the United American States,
and finally to raise us up a
powerful friend among the
princes of the earth, to es-
tablish our liberty and in-
dependency upon a lasting
foundation-, it becomes us
to set apart a day for grate-
fully acknowledging the
divine goodness, and cele-
brating the important event
which we owe to his divine
interposition. The several
brigades are to be assem-
bled for this purpose at nine
o'clock to-morrow morning,
when their chaplains will
communicate the intelli-
gence contained in the Post-
script of the Pennsylvania
Gazette of the 2d instant,
and offer up thanksgiving,
and deliver a discourse suit-
able to the occasion. At
half after ten o'clock a can-
non will be fired, which is to
be a signal for the men to
be under arms ; the brigade-
inspectors will then inspect
their dress and arms and
form the battalions accord-
ing to the instructions given
them, and announce to the
commanding officers of the
brigade that the battalions
are formed.
" The commanders of bri-
gades will then appoint the
field-officers to the batta-
10
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
vived, our husbandry and manufactures in-
creased, and the hearts of all impressed with
undissembled piety, with benevolence and
zeal for the public good.
And it is also recommended, that recreations
unsuitable to the purpose of such a solemnity
may be omitted on that day.
Done in Congress this 17th day of Novem-
ber, 1778, and in the third year of the
Independence of the United States of
America. HENRY LAURENS,
President in Congress.
Attest, Charles Thomson, Secretary.
" lions, after which each bat-
" talion will be ordered to
" load and ground their arms.
" At half past eleven a second
"cannon will be fired as a
" signal for the march, upon
" which the several brigades
" will begin their march by
" wheeling to the right by
" platoons, and proceed by
" the nearest way to the left
" of their ground by the new
"position; this will be point-
"ed out by the brigade-in-
" spectors. A third signal
"will then be given, on
" which there will be a dis-
" charge of thirteen cannon;
" after which a running fire
'the front line; it will then
' be taken upon the left of
'the second line and con-
'tinue to the right. Upon
' a signal given, the whole
' army will huzza. Long live
' the King of France; the artil-
' lery then begins again and
'fires thirteen rounds; this
' will be succeeded by a se-
' cond general discharge of
' the musketry in a running
' fire, and huzza, Long live the
^friendly European Poioers.
' The last discharge of thir-
' teen pieces of artillery will
' be given, followed by a
' general running fire, and
' huzza, The American States."
"of the infantry will begin — Sparks' s Life and Writings
" on the right of Woodford's, of Washington, v, 355.
" and continue throughout
THANKSGIVING rROCLAMATIONS. 11
[On the I4tli of October, 1779, Congress resolved,
"That it will be proper to set apart the 2d Thursday
in December next as a day of General Thanksgiving in
these United States, and that a committee of four be
appointed to prepare a recommendation to the States
for this purpose."
The members appointed were Jesse Root, Samuel
Holten, Frederick A. Muhlenberg and Gouverneur
Morris, who, on the 20th of October, reported the fol-
lowing draft, which was agreed to :]
AlT^HEREAs it becomes us humbly to approach
* * the throne of Almighty God, with grati-
tude and praise for the wonders which his
goodness has wrought in conducting our fore-
fathers to this western world ; for his protection
to them and to their posterity amidst difficulties
and dangers ; for raising us, their children,
from deep distress to be numbered among the
nations of the earth; and for arming the hands
of just and mighty princes in our deliverance ;
and especially for that he hath been pleased to
grant us the enjoyment of health, and so to
order the revolving seasons, that the earth hath
produced her increase in abundance, blessing
the labours of the husbandman, and spreading
plenty through the land ; that he hath prospered
our arms and those of our ally ; been a shield
to our troops in the hour of danger, pointed
tbeir swords to victory, and led them in tri-
umph over the bulwarks of the foe; that he
hath gone with those who went out into the
12 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
wilderness against the savage tribes; that he
hath stayed the hand of the spoiler, and turned
back his meditated destruction; that he hath
prospered our commerce, and given success to
those who fought the enemy on the face of the
deep ; and above all, that he hath diffused the
glorious light of the gospel, whereby, through
the merits of our gracious Redeemer, we may
become the heirs of his eternal glory: there-
fore.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the
several States to appoint Thursday, the 9th of
December next, to be a day of Public and
Solemn Thanksgiving to Almighty God for his
mercies, and of prayer for the continuance of his
favour and protection to these United States ;
to beseech him that he would be graciously
pleased to influence our public councils, and
bless them with wisdom from on high, with
unanimity, firmness and success; that he
would go forth with our hosts and crown our
armies with victory; that he would grant to
his church the plentiful effusions of divine
grace, and pour oat his holy spirit on all minis-
ters of the gospel ; that he would bless and
prosper the means of education, and spread
the light of Christian knowledge through the
remotest corners of the earth : that he would
smile upon the labours of his people, and cause
the earth to bring forth her fruits in abundance ;
that we may with gratitude and gladness enjoy
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 13
them ; that he would take into his holy protec-
tion our illustrious ally, give him victory over
his enemies, and render him signally great, as
the father of his people and the protector of the
rights of mankind ; that he would graciously
be pleased to turn the hearts of our enemies,
and to dispense the blessings of peace to con-
tending nations; that he would in mercy look
down upon us, pardon our sins and receive us
into his favour, and finally, that he would esta-
blish the independence of these United States
upon the basis of religion and virtue, and sup-
port and protect them in the enjoyment of
peace, liberty and safety.
Done in Congress, the twentieth day of
October, one thousand seven hundred
and seventy-nine, and in the fourth year
of the Independence of the United States
of America.
SAMUEL HUNTINGTON,
President.
Attest, Charles Thomson, Secretary.
14 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
[On the 18th of October. 1780, Congress took into
consideration a resolution reported for setting apart a
day of Thanksgiving and Prayer, and agreed upon the
following :]
IVThereas it hath pleased Almighty God, the
' ^ Father of all Mercies, amidst the vicissi-
tudes and calamities of war, to bestow blessings
on the people of these States, which call for
their devout and thankful acknowledgments,
more especially in the late remarkable interpo-
sition of his watchful providence, in rescuing
the person of our Commander-in-Chief and the
army from imminent dangers at the moment
when treason was ripened for execution ; in
prospering the labours of the husbandman, and
causing the earth to yield its increase in plenti-
ful harvests ; and above all, in continuing to us
the enjoyment of the gospel of peace :
It is therefore recommended to the several
States to set apart Thursday, the seventh day
of December next, to be observed as a day of
Public Thanksgiving and Prayer; that all the
people may assemble on that day to celebrate
the praises of our Divine Benefactor ; to con-
fess our unworthiness of the least of his
favours, and to offer our fervent supplications
to the God of all grace ; that it may please
him to pardon our heinous transgressions, and
incline our hearts for the future to keep all his
laws ; to comfort and relieve our brethren who
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 15
are anywise afflicted or distressed ; to smile
upon our husbandry and trade ; to direct our
public councils, and lead our forces by land and
sea to victory ; to take our illustrious ally under
his special protection, and favour our joint
councils and exertions for the establishment of
speedy and permanent peace ; to cherish all
schools and seminaries of education, and to
cause the knowledge of Christianity to spread
over all the earth.
Done in Congress, this eighteenth day of
October, 1780, and in the fifth year of
the Independence of the United States
of America.
SAMUEL HUNTINGTON, President.
Attest, Charles Thomson, Secretary.
16
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
[A committee, consisting of John Witberspoon, John
Montgomery, James M. Yarnum and Roger Sherman,
appointed September 13, 17S1, reported a draft of a
Proclamation, which was agreed to, October 26th, as
follows :]
PROCLAMATION*
'ATT'hereas, it hath pleased Almighty God, the
" * Father of Mercies, remarkably to assist
and support the United States of America, in
their important struggle for liberty, against the
long continued eftbrts of a powerful nation; it
is the duty of all ranks to observe and thank-
fully to acknowledge the interpositions of his
* Gen. Washington, in reply-
to a letter from the President
of Congress, inclosing this
Proclamation, thus wrote
from Mount Vernon, Novem-
ber 15, 1^81:
" I have the honor to ac-
' knowledge the receipt of
' your favor of the 31st ult.,
' covering the resolutions of
' Congress of the 29th, and a
' Proclamation for a day of
' Public Prayer and Thanks-
' giving, and have to thank
'you, sir, most sincerely for
' the very polite and affection-
' ate manner in which these
' enclosures have been con-
' veyed. The success of the
' combined arms against our
'enemies at York and Glou-
" cester, as it affects the wel-
" fare and independence of the
" United States, I viewed as a
" most fortunate event. In
" performing my part towards
" its accomplishment, I con-
" sider myself to have done
" only my duty, and in the ex-
" ecution of that I ever feel
"myself happy; and at the
" same time, as it augurs well
" to our cause, I take a parti-
" cular pleasure, in acknow-
" lodging, that the interpos-
" ing hand of heaven, in the
" various instances of our ex-
" tensive preparations for this
" operation, has been most
" conspicuous and remarka-
" ble." — Sparks'' s Life and
Writ, of Washington, vni, 20 1.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 17
providence in their behalf. Through the whole
of the contest, from its first rise to this time,
the influence of Divine Providence may be
clearly perceived in many signal instances, of
which we mention but a few.
In revealing the councils of our enemies,
when the discoveries were seasonable and im-
portant, and the means seemingly inadequate
or fortuitous ; in preserving and even improving
the union of the several States, on the breach
of which our enemies placed their greatest
dependence ; in increasing the number and
adding to the zeal and attachment of the
friends of liberty ; in granting remarkable de-
liverances, and blessing us with the most signal
success, when affairs seemed to have the most
discouraging appearance ; in raising up for us
a powerful and generous ally, in one of the first
of the European powers ; in confounding the
councils of our enemies, and suffering them to
pursue such measures as have most directly
contributed to frustrate their own desires and
expectations ; above all, in making their ex-
treme cruelty to the inhabitants of these States,
when in their power, and their savage devasta-
tion of property, the very means of cementing
our union, and adding vigour to every effort in
opposition to them.
And as Ave can not help leading the good
people of these States to a retrospect on the
events which have taken place, since the begin-
3
18 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
ning of the war, so we recommend, in a parti-
cular manner to their ohservation, the goodness
of God in the year now drawing to a conclu-
sion. In which the confederation of the United
States has been completed ;* in which there
have been so many instances of prowess and
success in our armies; particularly in the south-
ern States, where, notwithstanding the diffi-
culties with which they had to struggle, they
have recovered the whole country, which the
enemy had over run, leaving them only a post
or two on or near the sea ; in which we have
been so powerfully and effectually assisted by
our allies, while in all the conjunct operations,
the most perfect harmony has subsisted in the
allied army; in which there has been so plentiful
a harvest, and so great abundance of the fruits
of the earth of every kind, as not only enables
us easily to supply the wants of our army, but
gives comfort and happiness to the whole peo-
ple ; and in which, after the success of our allies
by sea, a General of the first rank, with his
whole army, has been captured by the allied
forces, under the direction of our Commander-
in-Chief.f
It is therefore recommended to the several
* The Delegates from Mary- f On the 24th of October,
land signed and ratified the 1181, Congress resolved, that
Articles of Confederation, it would at 2 o'clock on that
March 1, 1181, by which the day, " go in procession to the
league of the thirteen Colo- "Dutch Lutheran Church, and
nies was confirmed. "return thanks to Almighty
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 19
States, to set apart the thirteenth day of De-
cember next, to be religiously observed as a
day of Thanksgiving and Prayer ; that all the
people may assemble on that day, with grateful
hearts, to celebrate the praises of our gracious
Benefactor ; to confess our manifold sins ; to
offer up our most fervent supplications to the
God of all grace, that it may please him to
pardon our offences, and incline our hearts for
the future to keep all his laws ; to comfort and
relieve all our brethren who are in distress or
captivity; to prosper our husbandmen, and give
success to all engaged in lawful commerce ; to
impart wisdom and integrity to our councillors,
justice and fortitude to our officers and soldiers ;
to protect and prosper our illustrious ally, and
favour our united exertions for the speedy es-
tablishment of a safe, honorable and lasting
peace; to bless all seminaries of learning, and
cause the knowledge of God to cover the earth,
as the waters cover the seas.
Done in Congress, this twenty-sixth day
of October, 1781, and in the sixth year
of the Independence of the United States
of America.
THOMAS McKEAN, President.
Attest, Charles Thomson, Secretary.
" God, for crowning the allied "British army, under the com-
" arms of the United States "mand of the Earl Cornwal-
" and France with success, by " lis."
" the surrender of the whole
20 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
[On the report of a committee, consisting of John
Witherspooi], John Montgomery and Hugh Williamson,
Congress, in October, 1782, appointed a day of Thanks-
giving. This was transmitted to the several States, and
upon its receipt by Gov. Clinton, he issued a Proclama-
tion, embodying that adopted by Congress. It was in
the following words :J
By his Excellency, Geo. Clinton, Esq., Go-
vernor of the State of New York, General
and Commander-in-Chief of all the Mili-
tia, and Admiral of the Navy of the same.
PROCLAMATION.
Agreeable to a Proclamation of the United
[l. s.] States in Congress assembled, of the
eleventh instant, in the words following,
viz :
' ' Xt being the indispensable duty of all na-
-°- " tions, not only to ofler up their supplica-
" tions to Almighty God, the Giver of all Good,
" for his gracious assistance in a time of distress,
"but also in a solemn and public manner to
" give him praise for his goodness in general,
" and especially for great and signal interposi-
" tions of his providence in their behalf; there-
" fore the United States in Congress assembled,
" taking into their consideration the many in-
" stances of divine goodness to these States, in
" the course of the important conflict in which
" they have been so long engaged ; the present
" happy and promising state of public affairs,
THANKSGIVING PKOCLAMATiONS. 21
" and the events of the war in the course of the
" year now drawing to a close, particularly the
*' harmony of the public councils, which is so
" necessary to the success of the public cause ;
" the perfect union and good understanding
" which has hitherto subsisted between them
" and their allies, notwithstanding the artful
" and unwearied attempts of the common
"enemy to divide them; the success of the
" arms of the United States and those of their
" allies, and the acknowledgment of their in-
" dependence by another European power,
" whose friendship and commerce must be of
•' great and lasting advantage to these States ;
" do hereby recommend it to the inhabitants of
" these States in general, to observe, and request
" the several States to interpose their authority
" in commanding and authorizing Thursday,
*' the twenty-eighth day of November next, as
" a day of Solemn Thanksgiving to God for all
" his mercies ; and they do further recommend
" to all ranks, to testify their gratitude to God
" for his goodness, by a cheerful obedience to
" his laws, and by promoting, each in his sta-
" tion, and by his influence, the practice of true
" and undefiled religion, which is the great
" foundation of public prosperity and national
" happiness."
I do hereby earnestly recommend it to all
the good people of this State, to set apart and
observe Thursday, the twenty-eighth day of
22 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and
to abstain from all worldly labor and recrea-
tions, and to assemble for public w^orship on
that day accordingly.
Given under my hand, and the privy seal
of the said State, at Poughkeepsie, the
twenty-second day of October, in the
seventh year of the Independence of the
said State, and in the year of our Lord
one thousand seven hundred and eighty-
two.
GEORGE CLINTON,
By his Excellency's command.
Robert Benson, Secretary.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 23
[The Committee, consisting of James Dnane, Samuel
Huntington and Samuel Holten, appointed to prepare a
Proclamation for a day of Thanksgiving, reported on
the iSth of October, 1783, a draft, which was agreed to
as follows :]
By the United States in Congress assembled.
A PROCLAMATION.
'YX'Thereas it hath pleased the Supreme Ruler
* * of all human events to dispose the hearts
of the late belligerent powers to put a period to
the effusion of human blood, by proclaiming a
cessation of all hostilities by sea and land, and
these United States are not only happily res-
cued from the dangers and calamities to which
they have been so long exposed, but their free-
dom, sovereignty and independence ultimately
acknowledged. And whereas, in the progress
of a contest on which the most essential rights
of human nature depended, the interposition of
Divine Providence in our favour hath been niost
abundantly and most graciously manifested,
and the citizens of these United States have
every reason for praise and gratitude to the God
of their salvation. Impressed, therefore, with
an exalted sense of the blessings by which we
are surrounded, and of our entire dependence
on that Almighty Being from whose goodness
and bounty they are derived, the United States
in Congress assembled, do recommend it to the
several States to set apart the second Thursday
24 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
in December next, as a day of Public Thanks-
giving, that all the people may then assemble
to celebrate with grateful hearts and united
voices the praises of their Supreme and All-
bountiful Benefactor, for his numberless favors
and mercies. That he hath been pleased to
conduct us in safety through all the perils and
vicissitudes of the war ; that he hath given us
unanimity and resolution to adhere to our just
rights ; that he hath raised up a powerful ally
to assist us in supporting them, and hath so far
crowned our united efforts with success, that in
the course of the present year hostilities have
ceased, and we are left in the undisputed pos-
session of our liberty and independence, and of
the fruits of our land, and in the free participa-
tion of the treasures of the sea ; that he hath
prospered the labour of our husbandmen with
plentiful harvests ; and above all, that he hath
been pleased to continue to us the light of the
blessed gospel, and secured to us in the fullest
extent the rights of conscience in faith and
worship. And while our hearts overflow with
gratitude, and our lips set forth the praises of
our great Creator, that we also offer up fervent
supplications, that it may please him to pardon
all our offences, to give wisdom and unanimity
to our public councils, to cement all our citi-
zens in the bonds of affection, and to inspire
them with an earnest regard for the national
honor and interest, to enable them to improve
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 25
the days of prosperity by every good work, and
to be lovers of peace and tranquility ; that he
may be pleased to bless us in our husbandry,
our commerce and navigation ; to smile upon
our seminaries and means of education, to
cause pure religion and virtue to flourish, to
give peace to all nations, and to fill the world
with his glory.
Done by the United States in Congress as-
sembled. Witness His Excellency, Elias
Boudinot, our President, this eighteenth
day of October, in the year of our Lord
one thousand seven hundred and eighty-
three, and of the Sovereignty and Inde-
pendence of the United States of America
the eighth.
ELIAS BOUDINOT, President.
Charles Williamson, Secretary.
26 THANKSGIVING PKOCLAMATIONS.
[A Committee of the Committee of the States, consist-
ing of Mr. Read, Mr. Dana and Mr. Hand, to whom
was referred the motion of Mr. Eead of the 2d instant,
" That a committee be appointed to prepare a Procla-
" mation for a day of Solemn Prayer and Thauks-
" giving to Almighty God, to be observed throughout
" the United States of America, on the exchange of
'' the instruments of ratification of the definitive treaty
" of peace between the United States of America and
" his Britannic Majesty ; and the happy completion of
" the great work of independency and peace to these
" United States," reported the following form of a Pro-
clamation :]
By the United States of America, in a
Committee of the States assembled.
A PROCLAMATION.
"V^Thereas it hath pleased the Supreme Ruler
* ' of the Universe, of his infinite goodness and
mercy, so to calm the minds and do away the
resentment of the powers lately engaged in a
most bloody and destructive war, and to dis-
pose their hearts towards amity and friendship,
that a general pacification hath taken place,
and particularly a definitive treaty of peace be-
tween the said United States of America and his
Britannic Majesty was signed at Paris, on the
third day of September, in the year of our Lord
one thousand seven hundred and eighty-three :
the instruments of the final ratifications which
were exchanged at Passy,on the 12th day of May,
in the year of our Lord, one thousand seven
hundred and eighty-four, whereby a finishing
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 27
hand was put to the great work of peace, and the
freedom, sovereignty and independence of these
States fully and compleatly established. And
whereas, in pursuit of the great work of free-
dom and independence, and the progress of the
contest in which the United States of America
have been engaged, and on the success of which
the dearest and most essential rights of human
nature depended, the benign interposition of
Divine Providence hath, on many occasions,
been most miraculously and abundantly mani-
fested ; and the citizens of the United States
have the greatest reason to return their most
hearty and sincere Praises and Thanksgiving
to the God of their deliverance — whose name
be praised. Deeply impressed, therefore, with
the sense of the mercies manifested to these
United States, and of the blessings which it
hath pleased God to shower down on us, of our
future dependence at all times on his power and
miercy, as the only source from which so great
benefits can be derived; we, the United States
of America in the Committee of the States
assembled, do earnestly recommend to the
supreme Executives of the several States, to set
apart Tuesday, the nineteenth day of October
next, as a day of Public Prayer and Thanksgiv-
ing, that all the people of the United States may
then assemble in their respective churches and
congregations, to celebrate with grateful hearts
and joyful and united voices, the mercies and
28 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
praises of their all-bountiful Creator, most holy,
and most righteous ! for his innumerable favours
and mercies vouchsafed unto them — more espe-
cially that he hath been graciously pleased
so to conduct us through the perils and dangers
of the war, as finally to establish the United
States in freedom and independency, and to
give them a name and place among the princes
and nations of the earth — that he hath raised
up great captains and men of war from amongst
us to lead our armies, and in our greatest dif-
ficulties and distresses hath given us unanimity
to adhere to and assert our just rights and pri-
vileges ; and that he hath been most graciously
pleased also to raise up a most powerful prince
and magnanimous people, as allies to assist us
in effectually supporting and maintaining them ;
that he hath been pleased to prosper the labour
of our husbandmen ; that there is no famine or
want seen throughout our land ; and above all,
that he hath been pleased to continue to us the
light of gospel truths, and secured to us in the
fullest manner the rights of conscience in faith
and worship.
And while our hearts overflow with gratitude,
and our lips pronounce the praises of our great
and merciful Creator, that we may also offer up
our joint and fervent supplications, that it may
please him of his infinite goodness and mercy
to pardon all our sins and offences; to inspire
with wisdom and a true sense of the public
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 29
good, all our public councils ; to strengthen
and cement the bonds of love and affection be-
tween all our citizens; to impress them with
an earnest regard for the public good and
national faith and honor, and to teach them to
improve the days of peace by every good work;
to pray that he will in a more especial manner
shower down his blessings on Louis, the most
Christian King our ally, to prosper his house,
that his son's sons may long sit on the throne
of their ancestors a blessing to the people en-
trusted to his charge — to bless all mankind, and
inspire the princes and nations of the earth with
the love of peace, that the sound of war may be
heard of no more ; that he may be pleased to
smile upon us, and bless our husbandry, fishery,
our commerce, and especially our schools and
seminaries of learning ; and to raise up from
among our youth men eminent for virtue, learn-
ing and piety, to his service in church and state ;
to cause virtue and true religion to flourish, to
give to all nations amity, peace and concord,
and to fill the world with his glory.
Done by the United States, in the Commit-
tee of the States assembled. Witness
the Honorable Samuel Hardy, chairman,
this third day of August, in the year of
our Lord one thousand seven hundred
and eighty-seven, and in the ninth of the
Sovereignty and Independence of the
United States of America.
30 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
NATIONAL THANKSGIVINGS
UNDER WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION.
[A resolution was adopted in the House of Repre-
sentatives, September 25th, 1789, in the following
words :
" On motion,
" Resolved, That a Joint Committee of both Houses be
" directed to wait upon the President of the United
" States, to request that he would recommend to the
" People of the United States a day of Thanksgiving and
" Prayer, to be observed by acknowledging with grate-
" ful hearts the many signal favours of Almighty God,
" especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably
" to establish a Constitution of Government for their
" safety and happiness.
" Ordered, That Mr. Boudinot, Mr. Sherman and Mr.
" Silvester be of the said Committee on the part of this
" House."
Concurred by the Senate the same day.]
PROCLAMATION.
Y^'Thereas it is the duty of all nations to ac-
* * knowledge the providence of Almighty
God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his
benefits, and humbly to implore his protection
and favor; and whereas both Houses of Con-
gress have, by their joint Committee, requested
me " to recommend to the people of the United
" States a day of Public Thanksgiving and
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 31
" Prayer, to be observed by acknowledging with
" grateful hearts the many and signal favours
" of Almighty God, especially by affording
" them an opportunity peaceably to establish a
" form of government for their safety and hap-
*' piness;"
Now, therefore, I do recommend and assign
Thursday, the twenty-sixth day of November
next, to be devoted by the people of these
States to the service of that great and glorious
Being, who is the Beneficent Author of all the
good that was, that is, or that will be ; that we
may then all unite in rendering unto him
our sincere and humble thanks for his kind
care and protection of the people of this coun-
try, previous to their becoming a nation ; for
the signal and manifold mercies, and the fa-
vourable interpositions of his providence, in
the course and conclusion of the late war ; for
the great degree of tranquility, union, and
plenty, which we have since enjoyed ; for the
peaceable and rational manner in which we
have been enabled to establish Constitutions of
Government for our safety and happiness, and
particularly the national one now lately insti-
tuted ; for the civil and religious liberty with
which we are blessed, and the means we have
of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge ;
and, in general, for all the great and various
favours, which he has been pleased to confer
upon us.
32 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
And, also, that we may then unite in most
humbly offering our prayers and supplications
to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations, and
beseech him to pardon our national and other
transgressions ; to enable us all, whether in
public or private stations, to perform our several
and relative duties properly and punctually; to
render our National Government a blessing to
all the people, by constantly being a govern-
ment of wise, just, and constitutional laws, dis-
creetly and faithfully executed and obeyed ; to
protect and guide all sovereigns and nations
(especially sach as have shown kindness to us),
and to bless them with good governments,
peace and concord ; to promote the knowledge
and practice of true religion and virtue, and
the increase of science, among them and us;
and, generally, to grant unto all mankind such
a degree of temporal prosperity as he alone
knows to be best.
Given under my hand, at the city of New
York, the third day of October, in the
year of our Lord one thousand seven
hundred and eighty-nine.
GEORGE WASHINGTON.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 33
[The suppression of the rebellion in Western Pennsyl-
vania, which, for a time, threatened the safety of the
Union, was deemed by President Washington an event
that called for a public act of Thanksgiving, which
he ordered, without special authority of Congress.]
A PROCLAMATION.
"TYThen we review the calamities, which
* * afflict so many other nations, the present
condition of the United States affords much
matter of consolation and satisfaction. Our
exemption hitherto from foreign war, an in-
creasing prospect of the continuance of that
exemption, the great degree of internal tran-
quility we have enjoyed, the recent confirma-
tion of that tranquility by the suppression of an
insurrection, which so wantonly threatened it,
the happy course of our public affairs in gene-
ral, the unexampled prosperity of all classes of
our citizens, are circumstances, which peculi-
arly mark our situation with indication of the
Divine Beneficence towards us. In such a state
of things, it is in an especial manner our duty
as a people, with devout reverence and affec-
tionate gratitude, to acknowledge our many
and great obligations to Almighty God, and to
implore him to continue and confirm the bless-
ings we experience.
Deeply penetrated with this sentiment, I,
George Washington, President of the United
States, do recommend to all religious societies
5
34: THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
and denominations, and to all persons whom-
soever within the United States, to set apart and
observe Thursday, the 19th day of February
next, as a day of Public Thanksgiving and
Prayer, and on that day to meet together and
render their sincere and hearty thanks to the
Great Ruler of Nations for the manifold and
signal mercies, which distinguish our lot as a
nation ; particularly for the possession of con-
stitutions of government, which unite, and by
their union establish, liberty with order; for
the preservation of our peace, foreign and do-
mestic ; for the seasonable control, which has
been given to a spirit of disorder in the sup-
pression of the late insurrection ; and, generally,
for the prosperous course of our affairs public
and private ; and at the same time, humbly
and fervently to beseech the kind Author of
those blessings graciously to prolong them to
us; to imprint on our hearts a deep and solemn
sense of our obligations to him for them ; to
teach us rightly to estimate their immense
value ; to preserve us from the arrogance of
prosperity, and from hazarding the advantages
we enjoy by delusive pursuits ; to dispose us to
merit the continuance of his favors by not
abusing them, by our gratitude for them, and
by a correspondent conduct as citizens and as
men; to render this country more and more a
safe and propitious asylum for the unfortunate
of other countries ; to extend among us true
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 35
and useful knowledge ; to diifuse and establish
habits of sobriety, order, morality and piety ;
and finally, to impart all the blessings we pos-
sess, or ask for yourselves, to the whole family
of mankind.
In testimony whereof, I have caused the
seal of the United States of America to
be affixed to these presents, and signed
the same with my hand. Done at the
[l. s.] city of Philadelphia, this first day of Jan-
uary, one thousand seven hundred and
ninety-five, and of the Independence of
the United States of America, the nine-
teenth.
GEORGE WASHINGTON.
36 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
THANKSGIVING AT THE PEA(JE
OF 1815.
[The oiEcial notification of peace with Great Britain,
was communicated to the House of Representatives, by
the President, February 18th, 1815, and the same day
the following resolution was introduced :
" It being a duty particularly incumbent, in a time of
" public calamity and war, humbly and devoutly to ac-
" knowledge our dependence on Almighty God, and to
'• implore his aid and protection, and in times of de-
" liverance and prosperity, to manifest our deep and
" undissembled gratitade to the Almighty Sovereign of
" the Universe ; therefore,
" Resolved, by the Senate and House of Representatives of
" the United States of America in Congress assembled, That
" a Joint Committee of both Houses wait on the Presi-
*' dent of the United States, and request that he recom-
" mend a day of Thanksgiving, to be observed by the
" people of the United States, with religious solemnity,
" and the offering of devout acknowledgments to God
" for his mercies, and in prayer to him for the continu-
" ance of his blessings."
A motion was made by Mr. Culpepper of North Caro-
lina, February 21st, to strike out from the preamble,
the words, " in a time of public calamity and war,
" humbly and devoutly to acknowledge our dependence |
" on Almighty God, and to imj)lore his aid and protec- I
" tion," and prevailed ; and on the second of March, Mr. j
Fish of New York, and Mr. Culpepper, were appointed, , tS
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS, 37
on the part of the House, a Committee, to wait upon the
President with the resolution.
In accordance Avith this request, the President issued
the following Proclamation :]
PROCLAMATION
By the President of the United States of
America.
THE Senate and House of Representatives of
the United States have, by a joint resolu-
tion, signified their desire, that a day may be
recommended to be observed, by the people of
the United States, with religious solemnity, as
a day of Thanksgiving, and of devout acknow-
ledgments to Almighty God for his great good-
ness, manifested in restoring to them the bless-
ings of peace.
No people ought to feel greater obligations
to celebrate the goodness of the Great Disposer
of events, and of the destiny of nations, than
the people of the United States. His kind pro-
vidence originally conducted them to one of
the best portions of the dwelling place allowed
for the great family of the human race. He
protected and cherished them, under all the
difficulties and trials to which they were ex-
posed in their early days. Under his fostering
care, their habits, their sentiments and their
pursuits, prepared them for a transition in due
time to a state of Independence and of Self-go-
vernment. In the arduous struggle by which
it was attained, they were distinguished by
38 THANKSGIVING PKOCLAMATIONS.
multiplied tokens of his benign interposition.
During- the interval which succeeded, he reared
them into strength, and endowed them with
the resources which have enabled them to
assert their national rights, and to enhance
their national character in another arduous
conflict, which is now happily terminated, by
a peace and reconciliation with those who have
been our enemies. And to the same Divine
Author of every good and perfect gift, we are
indebted for all those privileges and advantages,
religious as well as civil, which are so richly
enjoyed in this favored land.
It is for blessings such as these, and more
especially for the restoration of the blessings of
peace, that I now recommend that the second
Thursday in April next, be set apart as a day
on which the people of every religious denomi-
nation, may, in their solemn assemblies, unite
their hearts and their voices, in a free-will of-
fering to their Heavenly Benefactor, of their
homage of Thanksgiving, and of their songs of
Praise.
Given at the city of Washington, on the
fourth day of March, in the year of our
[l. s.] Lord, one thousand eight hundred and
fifteen, and of the Independence of the
United States the thirty-ninth.
JAMES MADISON.
THANKSGIVING rEOCLAMATIONS.
39
MESSAGE
Of the Governor of New York, communi-
cating an official notice of the ratifica-
tion of the Treaty of Peace.*
" Gentlemen : I have the honor to inform yon, that
" I have received official information of the ratifica-
" tion of a Treaty of Peace, between the United States
" and Great Britain.
" In presenting you my congratulations on this au-
*' spicious event, I am forcibly struck with the propriety
" of offering up our Thanks to the Beneficent Puler of
" the Universe, that he has been pleased to signalize our
" arms by so many splendid and important victories,
" and to conduct our beloved country, thus successfully,
" through the perils of war. Under this impression, I
" feel it a sacred duty to unite with the Legislature, in
" recommending to the citizens of this State, the ob-
" servance of a day to be devoted to suitable Prayer,
" Thanksgiving and Praise."
DANIEL D. TOMPKINS.
Albany, 21st February, 1815.
* The Peace of Ghent, was
sig-ned by the Commissioners,
December 14, 1814, and pro-
claimed by the President,
February 18, 1815.
On the same day that the
above Message was trans-
mitted, the Assembly had
passed a series of resolu-
tions, for celebrating in a
becoming manner the ratifi-
cation of Peace, which was
then generally reported to
have occurred, although no
official notification had been
received. By the first of
these resolutions, the Go-
vernor was requested, as
soon as ofBcial notice of the
ratification should be re-
ceived, to issue a Procla-
mation, appointing an early
day to be observed as a day
of Thanksgiving.
40 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
[Extract from the New York Senate Journal.]
*M, ^ M, ,*l, M,
*ft- =»■ ^ *Jf ^
" The Senate then resolved itself into a Comiiiittee of
" the Whole, on the Message of his Excellency the Go-
" vernor, of this day, informing the Senate of his having
" been officially informed of the ratification of a Treaty
*' of Peace between the United States and Great Britain,
" and congratulating the Senate on this anspicions
" event ; and also recommending the propriety of setting
" apart a day to be devoted to suitable Prayer, Thanks-
" giving and Praise ; and after some time spent thereon,
*' Mr. President resumed the chair, and Mr. Bishop, from
«' the said Committee, reported that the Committee had
" agreed to the resolutions, in the words following, to
" wit :
" Resolved, as the sense of this Committee, that the
" Senate do reciprocate to his Excellency the Governor,
" the congratulations this day communicated by him to
" this House, on the auspicious event of a ratification
" of a Treaty of Peace, between the United States and
" Great Britain.
" Resolved, as the sense of this Committee (if the ho-
" norable the Assembly concur herein), that his Ex-
" cellency the Governor be requested to appoint, and
" recommend by Proclamation, a day of public Prayer,
" Thanksgiving and Praise, to be observed by the citi-
" zens of this State, to offer thanks to Almighty God,
" for the ratification of a Treaty of Peace and Amity,
" between the United States and Great Britain ; that he
" has been pleased to signalize our arras by so many
" splendid and important victories ; that he has con-
" ducted our country successfully through the perils of
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 41
" war ; and that he has preserved to us our invaluable
" civil and religious institutions."
Agreed to in Senate, February 21, 1815.
Agreed to in Assembly, February 24, 1815.
PROCLAMATION
By Daniel D. Tompkins, Governor of the
state of New York, General and Com-
mander-in-Chief of all the Militia, and
Admiral of the Navy of the same.
Tn compliance with a resolution of the Senate
■*- and Assembly of this State, I do hereby set
apart the second Thursday of April next, to be
devoted to public Prayer, Thanksgiving and
Praise ; and I do most earnestly recommend to
the good people of this State, of every denomi-
ation, to abstain from all kinds of labor and.
business on that day, to meet in their respective
places of worship, and there unite their hearts
in fervent prayer to the Most High, in humble
acknowledgment of his all protecting influence ;
and in celebration of his goodness manifested
to us as a nation, in that he has been pleased
to signalize our arms by so many splendid
victories — to conduct our country successfully
through the perils of the late war — to restore
to us the blessings of peace, and to preserve,
unimpaired, our civil and religious institu-
tions.
In testimony whereof" I have caused the
privy seal of the State of New York to be
6
/
42 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
hereunto affixed, at the city of Albany,
[l. s.] the seventeenth day of March, in the
year of our Lord one thousand eight
hundred and fifteen.
DANIEL D. TOMPKINS.
By his Excellency the Governor.
Robert Tillotson, Priv. Secretary,
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 43
THANKSGIVINGS
ORDERED BY THE GOVERNORS OF NEW YORK.
By his Excellency John Jay, Esq., Govern-
or and Commander-in-Chief of the State
of New York.
A PROCLAIM AT [ON.
IVThereas the Great Creator and Preserver of
' * the Universe, is the Supreme Sovereign
of Nations, and does when and as he pleases,
reward or punish them by temporal blessings
or calamities according as their national con-
duct recommends them to his favor and bene-fi-
cence, or excites his displeasure and indignation :
And whereas, in the course of his govern-
ment he hath graciously been pleased to shew
singular kindness to the people and nation of
which this State is a constituent member, by
protecting our ancestors in their first establish-
ment in this then savage wilderness — by de-
fending them against their enemies — by bless-
ing them with an uncommon degree of peace,
liberty and safety, and with the civilizing light
and influence of his holy gospel — by leading
us (as it were by the hand), through the various
dangers and difficulties of the late revolution,
^
44
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
and crowning it with success ; by giving us
wisdom and opportunity to establish govern-
ments and institutions, auspicious to order, se-
curity and rational liberty ; by preserving us
from being involved in the wars, and other
grievous calamities, which at this moment af-
flict and distress many nations,* by restoring
peace between us and the hostile Indians, who
infested our borders ;f by constantly favoring us
with fruitful seasons, and in general, by giving
us a greater portion of public welfare and pros-
perity than to any other people.
And whereas, it hath pleased him, by permit-
ting sickness to prevail, and be fatal to the lives
of many of our principal city,;}: and in sundry
places in this and other States, and by the ex-
tensive alarms and embarrassments which at-
tended it, to remind us that prosperity and
adversity are in his hand, and that in all our
pursuits we are to remember that he is the
* The first coalition against
France, directed by England,
was formed in 1793, and
embraced every principal
country in Europe, except
Sweden, Denmark and Tur-
key. Its special design was
to check the republican tend-
encies of the French Revolu-
tion.
f The Treaty at Greene-
ville, signed August 3, 1195,
included eleven hostile In-
dian tribes, and was followed
by the rapid settlement of
the western frontiers.
J The yellow fever pre-
vailed to a fearful extent, in
New York city in this year.
The history of this visitation
has been written by Dr. Rich-
ard Bayley.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 45
cause and giver of all the good that was, that
is or that will be.
And whereas, our Almighty Sovereign, in
addition to his other mercies, hath lately staid
the hand of the destroying angel, and by thus
manifesting and multiplying his benefits to us
as a people, call upon us as a people to mani-
est our gratitude to him.
Wherefore, and particularly on this occasion,
it appears to me to be the public duty of the
people of this State, collectively considered, to
render unto him their sincere and humble
thanks, for all these his great and unmerited
mercies and blessings ; and also to offer up to
him their fervent petitions to continue to us
his protection and favor. To preserve to us
the undisturbed enjoyment of our civil and re-
ligious rights and .privileges, and the valuable
life and usefulness of the President of the United
States. To enable all our rulers, councils and
people, to do the duties incumbent on them,
respectively, with wisdom and fidelity — to pro-
mote the extension of true religion, virtue and
learning — to give us all grace to cultivate na-
tional union, concord and goodwill; and gene-
rally to bless our nation, and all other nations,
in the manner and measure most conducive to
our and their best interests and real welfare.
Whether the Governor of this State is vested
with authority to appoint a day for these pur-
poses, and to enjoin the observance of it, is a
46 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
question, which, circumstanced as it is, I con-
sider as being more proper for the Legislature
than for me to decide. But, as the people of
the State have constituted me their Chief Ma-
gistrate, and being perfectly convinced, that
national prosperity depends, and ought to de-
pend, on national gratitude and obedience to
the Supreme Ruler of all Nations, I think
it proper to recommend, and therefore I do
earnestly recommend, to the clergy and others,
my fellow citizens, throughout this State, to
set apart Thursday, the twenty-sixth day of
November inst., for the purposes aforesaid, and
to observe it accordingly.
Given under my hand, at the Government
House, in the city of New York, on the
eleventh day of November, in the year
[l. s.] of our Lord, one thousand seven hun-
dred and ninety-five, and in the twen-
tieth year of the Independence of the
United States.
JOHN JAY.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 47
PROCLAMATION
By De Witt Clinton, Governor of the State
of New York.
^IT'hereas it is an obvious and solemn duty, to
' * render the oblations of devout and grate-
ful hearts to Almighty God, for the manifold
blessings conferred upon us at all times, by the
gracious dispensations of his providence, and
especially for those so signally and extensively
experienced at the present period, in the abund-
ant productions of the earth ; in the prevalence
of general health ; in the increasing diffusion
of the lights of knowledge ; in the success-
ful progress of useful improvements ; in the
flourishing state of our seminaries of education ;
in the continued enjoyment of peace, liberty
and independence, and in the general pros-
perity of the American people. I have there-
fore considered it an indispensable obligation,
to recommend, and I do accordingly recom-
mend, the observance of Thursday, the thir-
teenth day of November next, as a day of
Prayer and Thanksgiving in this State.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto sub-
scribed my name, and caused the privy
seal of the State to be affixed, at the
[l. s.] city of Albany, this fifteenth day of Oc-
.J'
48 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
tober, in the year of our Lord one thou-
sand eight hundred and seventeen, and
in the forty-second year of the Independ-
ence of the United States.
DE WITT CLINTON,
•w^
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 49
PROCLAMATION
By De Witt Clinton, Governor of the State
of New York.
VVThereas the great and multiplied blessings
* ^ conferred by Almighty God on the people
of this State, demand from them the solemn
and united expression of gratitude to the Au-
thor of every good and perfect gift, I have
therefore considered it an indispensable duty to
recommend the observance of a day for Public
Prayer and Thanksgiving ; and I do accordingly
recommend for that purpose, Thursday, the
fifth day of November next.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto sub-
scribed my name, and affixed the privy
seal of the State, at the city of Albany,
this twenty-first day of September, in
[l. s.] the year of our Lord one thousand eight
hundred and eighteen, and in the forty-
third year of the Independence of the
United States.
DE WITT CLINTON.
50 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By De Witt Clinton, Governor of the State
of New York.
HEREAs the oifering up to Almighty God,
of public and united thanks for his bless-
ings, is an evident duty of religion ; and the
recommendation of a particular day for that
solemn purpose, while it in no wise interferes
with the freedom of religious opinion or prac-
tice, is the most direct and proper means of
uniting individual Thanksgiving in one social
expression of the public gratitude. And where-
as, this State has been greatly distinguished by
the dispensation of a Benign Providence ; having
experienced during the past year the continued
blessings of freedom and of peace — the success-
ful progress of great internal improvements —
the increase of seminaries of education- — the
general preservation of the public health, and
its deliverance in the metropolis from calami-
ties with which it was menaced — an unprece-
dented abundance of the fruits of the earth, and
an augmentation of the lights of religion and
knowledge. Now, therefore, I have judged it
my incumbent duty, to recommend to the
good people of this State, the observance of
Wednesday, the twenty-second day of Novem-
TnANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 51
ber next, as a day of Prayer and Thanksgiving.
And I do so in the earnest hope, that all, except
such as may be withheld by scruples of con-
science, will, on that day, assemble in their
respective places of worship, and present the
sublime spectacle, of a whole people offering
the homage of devout and grateful hearts, to
that great and good Being, from whose bounty
we derive all that we enjoy.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto sub-
scribed my name, and affixed the privy
[l. s.] seal of the State, at the city of Albany,
this first day of November, in the year
of our Lord one thousand eight hundred
and nineteen.
DE WITT CLINTON.
52 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By De Witt Clinton, Governor of the State
of JNew York.
'\^7"hereas public demonstrations of gratitude
^ " to Almighty God, especially for signal and
unmerited blessings, are enjoined by the most
impressive considerations of patriotism, and
the most solemn obligations of religion. And
whereas, it has been his divine pleasure to con-
tinue his manifestations of great goodness to
the people of this State, in averting the ravages
of pestilence, multiplying the fruits of the
earth, promoting the diffusion of religion, ad-
vancing the interests of knowledge, prospering
internal improvements, and vouchsafeing the
enjoyment of liberty, peace and plenty.
Now, therefore, under a grateful sense of
these indulgent dispensations, a solemn convic-
tion, that private happiness and public pros-
perity are indissolubly connected with the
cultivation of religion, and a deep solicitude to
endeavor to merit the favor of Divine Provi-
dence, I do hereby recommend to the good
people of this State, the observance of Wednes-
day, the sixth day of December next, as a day
of Public Prayer and Thanksgiving.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto sub-
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 53
scribed my name, and affixed the privy
seal of tiie State, at the city of New
[l. s.] York, this twenty-fifth day of October,
Anno Domino eighteen hundred and
twenty.
DE WITT CLINTON.
54 THANKSGIVING PKOCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By De Witt Clinton, Governor of the State
of New York.
HEREAS the offering up to Almighty God,
of public and united thanks for his bless-
ings, is an evident duty of religion. And where-
as, the recommendation of a particular day for
that solemn purpose, interferes in no wise with
religious freedom, and is the most direct and
proper means of uniting individual Thanksgiv-
ing in one social expression of the public grati-
tude. And whereas, this State has been greatly
distinguished by the gracious dispensation of
Divine Providence, having experienced during
the present year, the continued blessings of
liberty and peace ; the successful progress of
great internal improvements ; the increased
usefulness of seminaries of education ; the ge-
neral preservation of health ; an abundance of
the fruits of the earth, and an augmentation of
the lights of religion and knowledge.
Now, therefore, I have judged it my incum-
bent duty, to recommend to the good people of
this State, the observance of Wednesday, the
twelfth day of December next, as a day of
Prayer and Thanksgiving, And I do so in the
earnest hope and in the confident expectation.
TUANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 55
that all, except such as may be withheld by
scruples of conscience, will on that day as-
semble in their respective places of worship,
and present the sublime spectacle, of a whole
people offering the homage of devout and grate-
ful hearts to that great and good Being from
whose bounty we derive all that we enjoy.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto sub-
scribed my name, and affixed the privy
[l. s.] seal of the State, at the city of Albany,
this tenth day of October, in the year of
our Lord one thousand eight hundred
and twenty-one.
DE WITT CLINTON.
56 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By De Witt Clinton, Governor of the State
of New York.
"X^Thereas public demonstrations of gratitude
'^ ' to Almighty God, for the manifold dispen-
sations of his goodness, and for the enjoyment
of signal and unmerited blessings, are enjoined
by the most impressive considerations of patri-
otism, and the most solemn obligations of re-
ligion. And whereas, it has been his divine
pleasure to continue his manifestations of great
goodness to the people of this State, in multi-
plying the fruits of the earth, promoting the
diffusion of religion, advancing the interests of
knowledge, prospering internal improvements,
and vouch safeing the enjoyment of liberty,
peace and plenty.
Now, therefore, under a grateful sense of
these indulgent dispensations, a solemn con-
viction that private happiness and public pros-
pertyare indissolubly connected with the culti-
vation of religion, and a deep solicitude to en-
deavor to merit the favor of Divine Providence,
I do hereby recommend to the good people of
this State, the observance of Thursday, the
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 57
fifth day of December next, as a day of Public
Prayer and Thanksgiving.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto sub-
scribed my name, and affixed the privy
seal of the State, at the city of Albany,
[l. s.] this thirty-first day of October, Anno
Domini one thousand eight hundred and
twenty-two.
DE WITT CLINTON.
8
58 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By Joseph C. Yates, Governor of the State
• of New York.
'TT'Thereas the people of this State have been
^ ^ highly favored with unmerited blessings
from tlie protecting hand of the Beneficent Creat-
or and Ruler of the Universe, signally manifested
Throughout the year past, by continuing to pro-
mote the cause of religion in onr land, the dif-
fusion of it abroad, and the dissemination of
useful knowledge among all classes of citizens ;
by withholding the alarmmg and destructive
scourge of pestilence ;"* by causing the earth to
yield an abundant increase, and thus gladden-
ing the heart of the husbandman, and removing
apprehension and anxiety from all, in giving
health, peace and plenty. By affording posi-
tive indications, that the enterprise, persever-
ance and patriotism of the people, for some
time past, evinced by the unexampled liberality
of their representatives, with regard to their
internal improvements, will be successful and
* The city of New York peared in Brooklyn, and se-
had been visited, the year veral died. Great alarm pre-
previous, by the yellow vailed, more especially as
fever, of which four hun- the disease appeared in a
dred and eleven persons sick- quarter of the city, before
ened, and two hundred and considered very healthy,
forty died. It also ap-
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 59
extremely useful and advantageous. By en-
abling the constituted authorities under his su-
perintending care and guidance, peacefully to
organize a government, according to a con-
stitution formed and adopted by the people ;
securing to them the blessings of liberty, and
the undisturbed fruition of their own labor and
exertions.* These, and innumerable other im-
portant blessings, daily dispensed to all, call
loudly for a united and public expression of
gratitude to Almighty God, beseeching him to
continue his benign favors, and to vouchsafe to
them, individually, and as a community, dis-
positions to cherish a grateful remembrance of
his unbounded goodness and mercy towards
them. I do therefore, under a solemn sense of
duty, recommend to the good people of this
State, the observance of Thursday, the eigh-
teenth day of December next, as a day of Pub-
lic Prayer and Thanksgiving.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto sub-
scribed my name, and affixed the privy
[l. s.] seal of the State, at the city of Albany,
this eighteenth day of October, A. D.
one thousand eight hundred and twenty-
three.
JOSEPH C. YATES.
* The Constitutional Con- in February, 1822, and went
vention of 1821, met in Au- into full operation on the
gus't, and the Constitution first day of January, 1823.
was adopted by popular rote
GO THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By Joseph C. Yates, Governor of the State
of New York.
"V\7'hereas the blessings of Almighty God have
* ' been specially bestowed upon the people
of this State, during the past year — in the
abundance of the harvests ; in the unexampled
prosperity prevailing throughout our happy
land ; in the protection afforded to our lives,
liberty and property, and in all our temporal
and religious concerns; benefits demanding the
most sincere and fervent gratitude and thanks
to the Creator and Preserver of the Universe.
I have therefore designated Thursday, the 21st
day of December next, as a day of Public Prayer
and Thanksgiving; the observance of which is
hereby recommended to the good people of this
State.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto sub-
scribed my name, and affixed the privy
seal of the State, at the city of Albany,
[l. s.] this eighteenth day of November, in the
year of our Lord, one thousand eight
hundred and twenty-four.
JOSEPH C. YATES.
TIHANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 61
PROCLAMATION
By De Witt Clinton, Governor of the State
of New York.
"VVThereas public demonstration of gratitude
* * to Almighty God, especially for signal
and unmerited blessings, are enjoined by the
most impressive considerations of patriotism
and the most solemn obligations of religion.
And whereas it has been his divine pleasure to
continue his manifestations of great goodness
to the people of this State, in averting the ra-
vages of disease, multiplying the fruits of the
earth, promoting the diffusion of religion and
useful knowledge, advancing the interests of
agriculture, manufactures, trade and commerce,
prospering internal improvements, vouchsafing
the enjoyment of liberty, peace and plenty,
and infusing an increasing spirit of good will
and harmony into this great community. Now
therefore, under a grateful sense of these in-
dulgent dispensations, a solemn conviction
that private happiness and public prosperity
are indissolubly connected with the cultivation
of religion, and a deep solicitude to endeavor
to merit the favor of Divine Providence, I do
hereby recommend to the good people of this
State, the observance of Thursday the twenty-
62 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
fourth day of November, as a day of Public
Prayer and Thanksgiving.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto sub-
scribed my name, and affixed the privy
seal of the State, at the city of Albany,
[l. s.] this eighteenth day of October, in the
year of our Lord one thousand eight
hundred and twenty-five.
DE WITT CLINTON.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 63
PROCLAMATION
By De Witt Clinton, Governor of the State
of New York.
"V\7'hereas public demonstration of gratitude
'^ * to Almighty God, for the manifest dis-
pensations of his goodness, and for the enjoy-
ment of signal and unmerited blessings, are
duties of paramount and indispensable obliga-
tion. And whereas it has been his divine
pleasure to continue his manifestations of great
goodness to the people of this State, in multi-
plying the fruits of the earth, promoting the
dilfusion of religion, advancing the interests of
knowledge, averting the ravages of disease,
prospering internal improvements and vouch-
safing the enjoyment of liberty, peace and
plenty. Now therefore, under a grateful sense
of these high and beneficent dispensations, and
with a deep solicitude in the performance of a
solemn duty, I do hereby recommend to the
good people of this State, the observance of
Thursday the seventh day of December next,
as a day of Public Prayer and Thanksgiving.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto set
my name and the privy seal, at the city
64:
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
of Albany, this twenty-fifth day of Octo-
[l. s.] ber, Anno Domini one thousand eight
hundred and twenty-six.
DE WITT CLINTON.
THANKSGIVING rROCLAMATIONS. 65
PEOCLAMATION
By De Wilt Clinton, Governor of the State
of New York.
ATT^HEREAS the recommendation of a particu-
* * lar day for tlie ofiering up to Almiglity
God of public and united thanks for bis mani-
fold blessings, interferes in no wise with reli-
gious freedom, and is the most direct and proper
means of uniting individual thanksgiving in
one social expression of the public gratitude;
and whereas the people of this State have been
greatly distinguished by the gracious dispensa-
tions of Divine Providence, having experienced
for a long time the blessings of liberty, plenty
and peace, the benefits of great internal im-
provements, of prosperous seminaries of edu-
cation, and of a general state of health, an
abundance of the fruits of the earth, and an
augmenting diffusion of the lights of religion
and knowledge. Now therefore, I have judged
it my incumbent duty, to recommend to the
good people of this State, the observance of
Wednesday the twelfth day of December next,
as a day of Prayer and Thanksgiving, and I do
so in the earnest hope and in the confident
expectation that all, except such as may be
withheld by scruples of conscience, will on
that day assemble in their respective places of
9
66 ' THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
worship, and present the sublime spectacle of
a whole people offering the homage of devout
and grateful hearts to that great and good
Being from whose bounty we derive all that we
enjoy.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto sub-
scribed my name and affixed the privy
[l. S.J seal, at the city of Albany, this twenty-
third day of October, Anno Domini one
thousand eight hundred and twenty-
seven.
DE WITT CLINTON.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. . 67
PROCLAMATION
By Nathaniel Pitcher, Lieutenant-Govern-
or of tiie State of New York.*
\17^HEREAS the continued goodness of Almighty
^ ^ God to the peopJe of this State, in per-
mitting us to enjoy the -blessings of republican
institutions, in crowning the year with his
mercy, by the abundant production of the
"kindly fruits of the earth," in the ditiYision of
moral instruction and science, by sustaining
our colleges, academies, and sabbath and com-
mon school institutions; in continuing to us
the light of revelation, and the consolation and
toleration of religious profession and worship —
these and numberless other evidences of divine
favor, demand from us a public expression of
devout and grateful acknowledgment. T do
therefore, in accordance with custom, and
under a solemn sense of public duty, recom-
mend to the good people of this State, the
observance of Thursday the fourth day of De-
cember next, as a day of Public Prayer and
Thanksgiving; and in so doing, I indulge the
confident expectation, that all with the excep-
tion of those who may be restrained by con-
* Lieut. Gov. Pitcher acted Feb. II, 1828, till the end of
as Governor from the death the year,
of Gov. De Witt Clinton,
68 . THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
scientious scruples, will assemble on that day
in their respective places of public worship,
and with devout and grateful hearts present
their thank-offering to Almighty God, for the
multi^^lied blessings which we are permitted
to enjoy.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto sub-
scribed my name, and affixed the privy
[l. s.] seal of the State, at the city of Albany,
the twenty-seventh day of October, Anno
Domini one thousand eight hundred and
twenty-eight.
NATHANIEL PITCHER.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 69
* PROCLAMATION
By Enos T. Throop, Lieutenant-Governor
of the State of New York, administering
the government thereof."^
Tt has pleased Almighty God to distinguish
-■- the people of this State by unmerited and
unwonted favors. He has given us strength
and wisdom, and by his guidance we have be^
come members of a national and state govern-
ment which secures to us safety from foreign
aggression, and to each of us the enjoyment of
our due, civil rights, and freedom of religious
opinion. By his great goodness, our hearts
have been disposed to cultivate the growth of
knowledge and virtue, by the instrumentality
of public worship, of schools, and of benevolent
and charitable institutions, and to consider
them as means of individual happiness and
national prosperity.
He has been graciously pleased to vouchsafe
to us during the past year, a continuance of
peace with other nations, tranquillity at home,
health, and abundant harvests.
For these, and for his innumerable favors to
* Lieut. Gov. Throop acted March 12, 1829, till the ex-
as Governor from the resig- piration of the term,
nation of Gov. Van Buren,
70 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
lis, as a people and as a nation, and that he
may continue to us his mercy and protection,
it is our bounden duty with grateful hearts,
solemnly and publicly to render our united and
fervent thanks to our Divine Creator, Guide
and Protector.
I do therefore, in conformity to usage, re-
commend to the good people of this State, the
observance of Thursday the third day of De-
cember next, as a day of Public Prayer and
Thanksgiving.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto set
my name, and the privy seal of the
[l. s.] State, this twenty-sixth day of October,
Anno Domini one thousand eight hun-
dred and twenty-nine.
ENOS T. THROOP.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 71
PROCLAMATION
By Enos T. Throop, Governor of the State
of New York, administering the govern-
ment thereof
"V\7"hereas the wisdom of man is but a small
^ " light shining around his footsteps, shew-
ing the things that are near, while all beyond
is shrouded in darkness, manifesting our de-
pendence upon a God of infinite wisdom, the
Creator and Guide of all things, who directs
our path through the dark and unseen places,
and to ends which human wisdom foresees
not, and evincing that our condition here,
whether of good or evil, is according to his
good pleasure operating upon our hearts and
minds, and not according to our own will :
AVherefore it is becoming, not only in indivi-
duals but in nations, to prostrate themselves
before him, in humble thankfulness lor all the
good things which he hath vouchsafed to them,
and to implore the continuance of his divine
favor, according to his good pleasure. Deeply
impressed with these truths, and in conformity
to usage, I do hereby appoint and set apart,
Thursday the ninth day of December next, and
recommend its observance throughout the
72 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
State in Religious Exercises and Thanksgiving
to Almighty God; for having continued his
signal favor to the people of this State and these
United States, during the past year, and espe-
cially for having given to us fruitful and health-
ful seasons, to the comfort and nourishment of
onr bodies; for having continued in us exer-
tions for the general diffusion of knowledge
and learning, to the enlightenment of our
minds, and fitting us for the enjoyment of our
social advantages, and the preservation of our
inestimable privileges as a nation ; for having
cultivated in us a spirit of charity, and an en-
lightened sense of religious and moral duties,
and preserved to us an unrestrained religious
worship, according to the dictates of our con-
science, whereby we are saved from the bigot-
ry, fanaticism, and cruel persecutions for opi-
nion's sake, which in other less enlightened
times and countries have drenched the altars
of patriotism and true religion with the blood
of human sacrifices; for having protected us
from foreign wars and intestine commotions,
and as friends of the human race let us thank
him for the signal manifestations of his mercy
towards the oppressed people of other nations,
by enlightening them to a knowledge of their
rights, and inspiring them with a will to repose
them in a spirit of mercy and forbearance.
Finally, let our devout aspirations to the God
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 73
of all mercies be, that he will sanction to us
and to all men, the beneficent dispensations
of his providence.
Given under my hand, and the privy seal,
at the city of Albany, the sixth day of
[l. s.] November, Anno Domini one thousand
eight hundred and thirty.
ENOS T. THROOP.
10
74 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By Enos T. Throop, Governor of the State
of New York.
[EiNG conscious that a periodical public obla-
tion of our hearts to Almighty God is ac-
ceptable to him, and a pleasing duty, and that
it is highly becoming in nations recipients of
his favors, as well as individuals, I do in
humble reverence, and in conformity to usage,
recommend to the people of this State, the
observance of Thursday the eighth day of De-
cember next, as a day of Prayer and Thanks-
giving. Let us with united hearts on that day,
renew to him our acknowledgments of grati-
tude, for those peculiar national institutions by
which he has distinguished us among the na-
tions of the earth, and whereby all our civil
and religious rights are secured ; and for having
established schools among us, and other means
of public instruction, whereby our capacity for
enjoyment is enlarged, and we are enabled
better to defend our civil and social privileges :
and among the innumerable favors which we
have received from his bountiful providence
during the past year, let iis particularly thank
him for healthful and fruitful seasons, for the
growing spirit of laudable enterprise and diver-
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 75
sified industry, and for his remarkable interpo-
sition in staying the desolating moral pestilence
of intemperate drinking.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto set
my hand and affixed the privy seal of
[l. s.] the State, this twentieth day of October,
in the year of our Lord one thousand
eight hundred and thirty-one.
ENOS T. THROOP.
76 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By Enos T. Throop, Governor of the State
of New York.
"ITThereas it is our duty, publicly and with
' ^ reverence and gratitude, to acknowledge
our dependence upon Almighty God, the Ex-
haustless Fountain of love and benevolence.
And whereas usage has indicated the festive
season of ingathering, when our garners are
filled with the fruits of the earth, and our
hearts with joy and thankfulness, as the proper
time to present to him a thank offering and a
feast offering, and to serve him with gladness,
and to come into his presence with a song —
I do therefore appoint and set apart Thursday,
the thirteenth day of December next, and re-
commend its observance by the people of this
State, in the accustomed Religious Solemnities,
Festivities and Thanksgiving. On that day,
while a sense of piety shall direct the exuber-
ance of feeling into consecrated channels, let
us sacrifice our animosities at the altar and the
festive board, and as a united people, thank
our Heavenly Father for the innumerable bless-
ings which he has been pleased to bestow upon
us ; and especially for the abundance which
has crowned the labors of the husbandman for
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 77
the past year ; for our civil and religious insti-
tutions, so constituted as to exempt us from the
evils of tyranny, anarchy and intolerance ; for
our peaceful and growing commerce ; for the
multiplication of productive industry ; for the
increase of the means of intellectual and moral
instruction ; and while we acknowledge his
chastening hand in the pestilence which re-
cently abode with us for a season, in its march
throughout the world, let us acknowledge with
gratitude his goodness for having now removed
it beyond our borders, and for the blessings
which he mingled in this cup of afflictions.
And in our aspirations, let us beseech him to
banish from among us, superstition, contention,
ignorance and ill will, and hasten that day
which we hope is within the plan of his provi-
dence, and now dawns upon us, when the
human understanding shall be so enlarged, and
the passions of men so chastened, that war
shall cease ; that civil institutions, founded on
the principles of equality, shall be adopted by
all nations ; and that the love of man for his
fellow creature, shall be manifested in deeds
of kindness and benevolence.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto set
my hand, and affixed the privy seal of
[l. s.] the State, this fifteenth day of November,
in the year of our Lord one thousand
eight hundred and thirty-two.
ENOS T. THROOP.
78 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By William L. Marcy, Governor of the
State of New York.
kURiNG the present j^ear, the Beneficent Ruler
of the Universe has been pleased to dis-
pense in a liberal manner his bounties and his
blessings to the people of this State. Peace
and tranquillity have prevailed throughout its
whole extent ; our free institutions securing to
us the full enjoyment of our civil rights, and
religious privileges are unimpared ; our estab-
lishments for education continue to dispense
their treasures of knowledge to the rising gene-
ration ; our harvests have been unusually abun-
dant, and industry, in all the diversified pur-
suits of our citizens, has been bountifully
rewarded. While many other parts of our
common country have been afflicted with a
most destructive pestilence, the inhabitants of
this State have been exempted by a kind Pro-
vidence from its visitation, and signally blessed
with an unwonted degree of health. Enter-
taining sentiments becoming a moral and re-
ligious people, it is our sacred and solemn duty
to express, in a public manner, the homage
and gratitude due to our Divine Benefactor, for
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 79
the manifold favors he has been pleased to
bestow upon us.
I do, therefore, in conformity to usage, most
respectfully recommend Thursday, the fifth
day of December next, to be observed as a day
of Public Prayer and Thanksgiving by the peo-
ple of this State.
Given under my hand and the privy seal
of the State, at Albany, this twenty-
[l. s.] eighth day of October, one thousand
eight hundred and thirty-three.
WILLIAM L. MARCY.
^^.ti
80 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By William L. Marcy, Governor of the
State of New York.
TT'oR the purpose of rendering devout acknow-
-*- ledgments unto the Ruler of Nations, for the
dispensation of his numerous favors, vouchsafed
to the people of this State during the past season,
I do hereby, in compliance with established
usage, recommend Thursday, the eleventh day
of December next, to be observed by them
as a day of Public Thanksgiving.
In witness whereof, I have subscribed my
name, and affixed the privy seal of the
[l. s.] State, this twenty-seventh day of Octo-
ber, one thousand eight hundred and
thirty-four.
WILLIAM L. MARCY.
THANKSGIVING PEOCLAMATIONS. 81
PROCLAMATION
By William L. Marcy, Governor of the
State of New York.
ri^HE people of this State, throughout the whole
-*- period of their existence, as a political
community, have been in a special manner the
object of divine favor. The same Almighty
Arm which protected and sustained our fore-
fathers, has also been our shield of defence ; the
same Bountiful Hand which administered tem-
poral and spiritual blessings to them, has been
more abundant in good gifts to us. In the dis-
pensations of Divine Providence towards us
during the past year, we have been mercifully
exempted from all those calamities by which
nations are frequently visited ; peace and con-
tentment have prevailed among us; we have
been favored with a season of health and plenty;
our civil and religious rights have been enjoyed
without molestation; moral and intellectual
improvement has rapidly advanced ; the spirit
of enterprise has been active in multiplying the
means of social happiness, and industry, in all
its various branches, has received appropriate
rewards. All things essential to our prosperity
have been graciously offered for our accept-
ance. Surrounded as we are, by numerous
11
82 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
and signal manifestations of divine goodness
towards us, as individuals, and in our social
and political relations, it behoves us to render
to our Beneficent Benefactor, the tribute of our
love and gratitude.
I do, therefore, in conformity to established
usage, appoint Thursday, the tenth day of De-
cember next, as a day of Public Thanksgiving,
and recommend that it be observed as such,
throughout the State, with due solemnities.
Given under my hand and the privy seal
of the State, at Albany, this thirty-first
[l. s.] day of October, one thousand eight hun-
dred and thirty-five.
WILLIAM L. MARCY.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 83
PROCLAMATION
By William L. Marcy, Governor of the
State of New York.
Tt has pleased the Sovereign Ruler of the Uni-
-*- verse, to dispense to the people of this State?
during the past season, his blessings and his
bounties in rich abundance ; and it is their
reasonable duty to render to him the tribute of
gratitude and thankfulness, for his kind and
gracious dealings with them, as individuals,
and in their social and civil relations.
I do, therefore, in conformity with established
usage, designate Thursday, the fifteenth day of
December next, as a day of Public Thanksgiv-
ing, and do recommend its due observance as
such, throughout this State.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto sub-
scribed my name, and affixed the privy
[l, s.] seal of the State, this fifth day of Novem-
ber, one thousand eight hundred and
thirty-six.
WILLIAM L. MARCY.
84: THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By William L. Marcy, Governor of the
State of New York.
T~\uRiNG the past season, the Sovereign Ruler
^-^ of Nations, has liberally dispensed his be-
nefactions to the people of this State. Together
with the full enjoyment of the rights of con-
science, with public tranquillity and the in-
crease and diffusion of knowledge, they con-
tinue to be blessed with civil institutions,
admirably calculated to secure in the highest
degree their social happiness and the benefits
of a Free Government. The dealings of Divine
Providence, as individuals and as a political
community, have been in other respects dis-
tinguished by kindness and liberality. We
have been mercifully exempted from those
calamities which are frequently permitted to
afflict nations ; we have enjoyed an unusual
degree of public health, and been favored with
a fruitful season and plenteous harvests. If in
the midst of this liberal ministration to our
necessities and comforts, by our Beneficent
Creator, our hearts are not fully satisfied, then,
indeed, have our inordinate desires turned us
from the path of duty and happiness, and the
chidings of his Providence, by reproving our too
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 85
eager passion for gain, repressing our extrava-
gance, and teaching us salutary lessons of
humility, moderation and wisdom, are, if right-
fully considered, but the merciful manifesta-
tions of his paternal goodness.
In view of the numerous favors and blessings
with which the past year has been crowned,
our thoughts should naturally be directed to
our Munificent Benefactor, and our hearts
moved to expressions of gratitude and thank-
fulness.
I do, therefore, in conformity to established
usage, appoint Thursday, the thirtieth No-
vember next, as a day of Public Thanksgiving,
and respectfully recommend its due observance
as such, by the good people of this State.
Given under my hand and the privy seal
of the State, at Albany, this thirtieth
[l. s.] day of October, one thousand eight hun-
dred and thirty-seven.
WILLIAM L. MARCY.
86 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By William L. Marcy, Governor of the
State of New York.
nPo acknowledge the bounties of the Giver
-*- of All Good, and to cherish grateful recol-
lections of his beneficence, is eminently worthy
of an intelligent and highly favored people.
Whether we contemplate our condition with
reference to the number and magnitude of the
benefits we have received, or in contrast with
less favored portions of the earth, we find
abundant reasons for devout thankfulness to
the Sovereign Arbiter of Nations. In an es-
pecial manner are we furnished with persuasive
motives to gratitude in his providential dealings
with us during the past season. Our fields
have been fertilized by the early and the latter
rains, the toils of the husbandman have been
rewarded with plentiful harvests: our habita-
tions have been preserved in peace, and our
families have been protected from the pestilence
that walketh in darkness and the destruction
that wasteth at noon-day; the clouds, which
for a time gathered gloomilyover us, have passed
away, and we are again restored to individual
and national prosperity; we still continue in the
full enjoyment of those civil, social and re-
THAxXKS GIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 87
ligious rights and privileges which so highly
distinguish us as a people.
I do therefore in conformity to established
usage designate Thursday, the twenty ninth
day of November inst., to be observed as a day
of Public Thanksgiving, and to recommend to
the good people of the state to unite in offering
the tribute of grateful hearts to their Divine
Benefactor, for the numerous blessings which
he has mercifully vouchsafed to them during
the past year.
Given under my hand and the privy seal of
the State the fifth day of November, in
[l. s.] the year of our Lord one thousand eight
hundred and thirty-eight.
W. L. MARCY.
88 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By William H. Seward, Governor of the
State of New York.
%1Thereas the Executive Authority of this
* ' State has been accustomed, with the con-
sent of the people, to designate a day for the
annual offerings of Thanksgiving and Prayer.
And whereas, Almighty God hath not with-
drawn from us the protection and beneficence
extended to our forefathers, but hath remem-
bered us in mercy during the past year ; hath
sent us abundant harvests, to reward the labors
of the husbandman and supply the wants of
the poor; hath averted from us the calamities
of war and pestilence ; hath suffered us to
maintain and more firmly establish republican
institutions, securing a larger measure of civil
and religious liberty, social tranquillity and do-
mestic happiness, than has ever before been
enjoyed by any people ; hath crowned with good
success the means which have been employed
by the State, by associations and by individu-
als, for the development of the abounding
resources of our country, the relief of the unfor-
tunate, the reformation of the vicious, the im-
provement of education, the cultivation of
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 89
science, the perfection of the arts, and the
maintenance of the Christian religion.
Now, therefore, in pursuance of said custom,
I do hereby appoint Thursday, the twenty-eighth
day of November next, to be observed through-
out this State, as a day of Public Worship,
Thanksgiving and Prayer. I recommend to
my fellow citizens, that they abstain on that
day from all secular employments, inconsist-
ent with a right and acceptable discharge of
these solemn services ; that they assemble in
their usual places of public worship, and there,
in the forms and manner approved by their con-
sciences, offer their humble and grateful ac-
knowledgments to the God of the Universe,
celebrate his praise, invoke his continued pro-
tection and favor, and implore his guidance in
the ways of wisdom and virtue ; well knowing
that his Providence is as impartial as it is bene-
^ficent. Let us also beseech him to deliver the
oppressed throughout the world, and vouchsafe
to all mankind the privileges of civil and reli-
gious liberty, and the knowledge, influences and
blessed hopes of the gospel of his Son our Savior.
In testimony wherereof, I have caused
the privy seal of the State to be hereun-
to affixed, at the city of Albany, on the
[l. s.] twenty-second day of October, in the
year of our Lord 1839, and of American
Indepence the sixty-fourth.
WILLIAM H. SEWARD.
12
90 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By AVilliam H. Seward, Governor of the
State of New York.
OD has been pleased to preserve our lives
during another year, and to bless our land
and make it very plenteous. Health, peace
and liberty have dwelt among us, and religion
has ministered her divine councils and consola-
tions. No danger has menaced us from abroad,
nor has the alarm of intestine commotion or
tumult disturbed the quiet of our dwellings.
The clouds have not withheld from the earth
their timely rain, nor the sun its genial heat.
The plow has not been stayed in the furrow,
nor has blight or mildew diminished the abun-
dant harvest. We have exhibited to the world
the sublime spectacle, of millions of freemen
carefully discussing the measures and policy
which concern their welfare, and peacefully
committing the precious trust of their interests
and hopes to the care of their chosen magis-
trates. While our confidence in the stability
of republican institutions is thus strengthened,
their benign operation has been manifested in
the sway of mild and equal laws, the enjoy-
ment of equal privileges by all classes of citi-
zens, the security of personal rights, and the
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 91
intellectual and moral improvement of so-
ciety.
In remembrance of these signal and mani-
fold blessings and privileges, it becomes us to
lift up our hearts, and ascribe all the power and
glory to Him who looketh down from heaven
and considereth all them that dwell upon the
earth. I do, therefore, in pursuance to a cus-
tom sanctioned by the people, set apart and
appoint Thursday, the seventeenth day of De-
cember next, to be observed throughout this
State, as a day for the usual offerings of Praise,
Thanksgiving and Prayer. I respectfully re-
commend to my fellow citizens, to abstain
from all secular occupations on that day, and
gather themselves in their solemn assemblies,
to render to our Heavenly Father the homage
of hearts softened and warmed by his unbound-
ed goodness ; to commit to his tender care, the
poor, the neglected and the oppressed and to
supplicate a continuance of his favor to this
people throughout all generations. However
we may be separated by opinions or associa-
tions, all the citizens of the Eepublic have
equal political rights, and have the same mo-
tives to desire its peace, happiness and per-
petual prosperity. The church of the living
God is one, and embraces all those who in
humility of spirit receive his holy faith, and
through divine aid, seek to keep his command-
ments. Let us, therefore, in perfect harmony
92
THANKSGIVING PKOCLAMATIONS.
and charity, one with another, as patriots and
Christians, implore him to sustain and bless
all our civil and religious institutions, and to
dispense to us abundantly that heavenly grace,
which, with faith in the Lord Jesus Christ,
leads through the ways of virtue, here, to the
blessed society of the redeemed in his everlast-
ing kingdom.
Given under my hand and the privy seal
of the State, at the city of Albany, this
[l. s.] ninth day of November, in the year of
our Lord one thousand eight hundred
and forty.
WILLIAM H. SEWARD.
I
THANKSGIVING PrxOCLAMATIONS. 93
PROCLAMATION
By William H. Seward, Governor of the
State of New York.
Tn the year which is about to close, Divine
-■- Providence hath been pleased, as in former
years, to vouchsafe to the inhabitants of this
State, the various fruits of the earth in their
proper seasons — health, security and tran-
quillity— prosperous commerce and peaceful re-
lations with foreign countries — freedom of con-
science— religious instruction and consolation;
moral, social and intellectual improvement^ —
and laws established and administered by re-
presentatives chosen by the people.
I do, therefore, appoint Thursday, the ninth
day of December next, to be set apart for the
customary annual offerings of Public Thanks-
giving and Praise to Almighty God, for all his
mercies and blessings ; and I recommend that
the occasion be observed throughout the Com-
naonwealth, with the humility, devotion and
gratitude which become a free and favored
Christian people.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set
my hand and caused the privy seal of
the said State to be annexed, at the city
[l. s.] of Albany, this 25th day of October,
1841, and of American Independence the
sixty-sixth.
WILLIAM H. SEWARD.
94 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By William H. Seward, Governor of the
State of New York.
rr^HURSDAY, the eighth day of December next,
-^ is hereby appointed to be observed by the
people of this State, as a day of Public Thanks-
giving and Praise to Almighty God, for the
manifold blessings of the year. We have tilled
the earth in safety and gathered plentiful har-
vests; relieved labor by inventions of art and
new applications of science; brought to suc-
cessful termination works of physical improve-
ment, designed to promote social intercourse,
and to guard against accidents to human life
and augment its enjoyments ; rendered our
system of intellectual and moral instruction
more equal and efficient, and acquired com-
prehensive knowledge of the agricultural, for-
est and mineral resources, which Providence
has supplied within the territory assigned for
our habitation. The savage warfare, which so
long prevailed on the southern border of our
country, scarcely less painful to humanity,
whether our arms were victorious or unsuc-
cessful against a rude and injured people, has
ceased.* Commotions which threatened to in-
volve a sister State, and even the whole Ameri-
* The Indian war in Flo- as closed, August 14, 1842.
rida was officially announced
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 95
can family, in the calamities of civil war, and
thus repress the growing confidence of mankind
in their capacity for self-government, have
peacefully subsided;* and our controversies
with a distinguished European nation, have
been adjusted by a treaty ,f securing reciprocal
advantages, and directing the efforts of both
States to the removal of a great reproach of
Christendom, by the extirpation of the slave
trade. Philanthropy has not abated her zeal
within our borders while extending her visita-
tions to distant regions, and the labors of philo-
sophy throughout the civilized world, have
been crowned with discoveries tending to ame-
liorate human life, and elevate the dignity of
mankind.
Let us reverently acknowledge, that these
and all the blessings that we enjoy, descend
from Him, by whom the nations of the earth
are governed in righteousness, and all human
affairs are regulated and controlled with infi-
nite wisdom and mercy.
Given under my hand and the privy seal
of the State, at the city of Albany, this
[l. s.] 1 7th day of November, in the year of our
Lord 1842, and in the sixty-seventh year
of American Independence.
WILLIAM H. SEWARD.
* Alluding to the Rhode f The treaty with England
Island controversy. of this year, was ratified
August 20, 1842.
96 THANKSGIVING PKOCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By William C. Bouck, Governor of the
State of New York.
N obedience to that high sense of gratitude
due the Almighty Ruler of the Universe, I
do hereby designate Thursday, the 14th day of
December next, to be observed by the people
of this State as a day of Prayer, Praise and
Thanksgiving to Almighty God, for the numer-
ous and unmerited blessings of the year.
I feel assured that this act of public duty is
in accordance with the wishes of the people,
and will meet with universal acquiescence.
As a people, we have great reason to be
thankful, and to praise the Almighty Dispenser
of all Good, for the continued smiles of his
providence on our State and Nation.
During the past year we have been permitted
to enjoy our religious and political privileges
unmolested. We have been exempt from those
ravages of malignant diseases, which sometimes
afflict a people. The season has been highly
propitious, and seldom has the harvest been
more abundant. As a crowning blessing, the
Spirit of the Lord has revived the hearts of
Christians, and brought to saving knowledge
many who knew not God.
'^^
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 97
For the distinguished blessings we have en-
joyed, we siiould raise our hearts in humble
adoration to our Father in Heaven: thereby
presenting to the world the imposing spectacle
of the entire population of a great State abstain-
ing from all secular engagements on the day
designated, and devoting themselves to the
service of the Almighty. We should always
remember that "righteousness exalteth a
nation."
Given under my hand, and the privy seal of
the State, at the city of Albany, this tenth
[l. s.] day of November, in the year of our
Lord one thousand eight hundred and
forty-three.
WM. C. BOUCK.
13
98 THANKSGIVING PKOCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By William C. Bouck, Governor of the
State of New York.
A NOTHER year has nearly drawn to a close,
"^^^ and surrounded as we are by the unnum-
bered blessings of God's Providence and Grace,
nothing can be more becoming and proper than
to lay aside all secular engagements, and de-
vote at least one day of the many we are
allowed to call our own, to devout Thanksgiv-
ing and Praise to the Author of the constant
and unmerited mercies we, as a people, are
permitted to enjoy.
I do, therefore, most cordially recommend,
that Thursday, the twelfth day of December
next, be observed throughout the State, as a
day of Prayer, Praise and Thanksgiving to our
great Father in Heaven, our gracious Benefac-
tor and Friend.
By his merciful Providence, we have been
permitted to enjoy the comforts of life, and our
religious, social and political privileges have
been continued to us. During the past year
we have been exempt from the ravages of ma-
lignant disease, and the earth has yielded her
increase ; a growing prosperity has been felt in
all the business relations of life, and the blessed
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 99
gospel has been gradually but surely extending
its benign influence. Actuated by its diifusive
benevolence, Christian missionaries have not
only labored among the waste and desolate
places at home, but have gone forth to proclaim
"Christ and him. crucified" to the dark and
benighted regions of the earth ; education, in
all its departments, is diflTasing an increase of
knowledge among all classes of the community;
temperance, the handmaid of religion, is mak-
ing deeper and wider impressions, and sending
joy and comfort into m.any desolate households,
while peace and prosperity are dwelling in our
midst.
Let us, then, as one people, on the day de-
signated, lay aside the care and ordinary busi-
ness of life, and give thanks unto God. And
with our Thanksgiving, let us mingle our
Prayers for a continuance of the numerous
blessings we enjoy, and especially that there
may be an outpouring of the Spirit of God, to
revive pure and undefiled religion among us — ■
the best security of our civil and political insti-
tutions.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto af-
fixed my name and the privy seal of the
[l. s.] State, this eighth day of November, in the
year of our Lord one thousand eight
hundred and forty-four.
WILLIAM C. BOUCK.
100 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By Silas Wright, Governor of the State of
New York.
4 usAGK which has the approbation of a
-^-*- quarter of a century, calls upon me, at this
period of the year, to name a day to be observed
by the People of this State, as a day of Public
Thanksgiving-. The uniformity in the time
heretofore designated, throughout the period
referred to, induces me to name Thursday, the
fourth day of December next, as the Thanks-
giving day for this State for the present year.
Life and health are enduring causes for
thankfulness to the Father of Life and the
Fountain of Health, from all the living.
Free, civil institutions, based upon the true
principles of popular sovereignty, and extend-
ing to every individual equal personal liberty,
and to all the largest measure of that liberty
consistent with that peace and order and per-
sonal security, present a cause for devout thank-
fulness to the Ruler of Nations, from every
people who enjoy these blessings.
The plentiful fruits of the earth, which in
our State and Country furnish an abundance
for the wants of all, call for daily thankfulness,
and render it peculiarly appropriate, that an-
TnANKSGIVING PKOCLAMATIONS. 101
niially, as these fruits are yielded, a Christian
people should unite in a tribute of Thanksgiv-
ing to Him, who tempers the seasons, and
blesses the earth and makes it fruitful.
In addition to these universal causes for
thankfulness, if each individual will summon
up the recollection of the almost innumerable
personal and social blessings which the year
has brought with it, all the people of this State
will be willing, with one heart, to set apart one
day, for the united expression of their thanks,
for the many and signal blessings of this year,
.abundantly bestowed upon them and their
country by the Great Author of every temporal
and spiritual blessing.
1 respectfully recommend the day I have
named, to be thus set apart for this grateful
service and duty, and that the people of the
State suspend their business avocations, and
assemble in their usual places of religious wor-
ship, that the temples which have resounded
with supplications for the year, may echo back
Thanksgiving to Him who has so bountifully
responded to our petitions, and so paternally
provided for our necessities.
Exercises, such as these, entered into in the
spirit and with the feelings whicli these con-
siderations should excite, can not fail to turn
the mind to the lively remembrance of the im-
measurably greater blessings of the redemption
through a Savior, and the revelation to fallen
102 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
man of the way of salvation ; blessings for
which the human heart can never be suffi-
ciently thankful.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto af-
fixed the privy seal of the State. Wit-
ness my hand at the city of Albany, this
[l. s.] fifth day of November, in the year of our
Lord one thousand eight hundred and
forty-five.
SILAS WRIGHT.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
103
PROCLAMATION
By Silas Wright, Governor of the State.
rinHE year eighteen hundred and forty-six draws
-"- to a close. Its seasons have been uncom-
monly propitious, and its harvests are realized.
Unusual health has blessed our State and
Country, and the teeming earth has yielded its
abundance to supply our necessities and minis-
ter to our comforts.
The wave of passion, which, during the past
year, rolled over some of our counties, has sub-
sided, and internal peace is restored to our citi-
zens and tranquillity to our firesides.*
The most sublime spectacle connected with
civil government is now exhibiting before us.
The representatives of the sovereignty of our
people, assembled to take in pieces and recon-
struct the frame work of the State Government,
have discharged the high trust, and returned to
* Referring to the Anti-
rent excitement in several of
the counties, and the combina-
tion of armed men in disguise,
to resist civil process. The
murder of Deputy Sheriff
Steele, in Delaware county,
which occured in August,
was followed by a Proclama-
tion of the Governor, declar-
ing the county in a state of
insurrection. A military
force was called out, and for
a time, a civil war appeared
inevitable, but the supre-
mac}' of the law was ulti-
mately asserted without
further effusion of blood.
104: THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
their constituents and to their private duties,
without having excited passion, alarm or ap-
prehension in the community ; and our freemen
are examining their labors, and preparing to
pass a verdict of approbation or rejection upon
their work, with a vigilance inspired by a per-
vading patriotism, and with a calmness and
confidence which free institutions can alone
impart.^ Not an individual in the State appre-
hends an encroachment upon his just rights,
or an abridgment of his civil and religious pri-
vileges, from this peaceful and voluntary revo-
lution of his government. Stronger evidences
of high intelligence and sound morality in a
people can not be afforded.
These, and innumerable other temporal bless-
ings of a kindred character, constantly flowing
upon our State and its citizens, call for con-
tinued thankfulness to the Bountiful Giver of
every blessing.
The gift of a Savior, and the full light of
divine revelation, are spiritual blessings, which
should awaken to expressions of devout thank-
fulness the hearts and the voices of a Christian
people.
I respectfully recommend Thursday, the
twenty-sixth day of November next, to be ob-
* The Constitutional Con- constitution was adopted,
vention of this year, assem- November 3, 1846, by a vote
bled June 1st, and adjourned of 221,528 to 92,436.
October 9th, The amended
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 105
served as a day of Public Thanksgiving ; that
the people of the State, abstaining from their
ordinary business avocations, may assemble at
their usual places of religious worship, and
uniting with each other, and with their fellow
citizens of many of the other States, may pay
their tribute of thanks to the Author of these
and all temporal and spiritual good gifts ; and
may pour out their hearts in Prayer to him,
that his rich smiles may be continued to our
country, and that the signal blessings of this
year may be crowned by the termination of our
existing wars, in an honorable and just peace.
In testimony whereof, T have caused the
privy seal of the State to be hereunto
affixed. Witness my hand at the city
[l. s.] of Albany, the nineteenth day of Octo-
ber, in the year of our Lord one thousand
eight hundred and forty-six.
SILAS WRIGHT.
By order.
Horace Moody, Private Secretary.
14
106
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By John Young, Governor of the State of
New York.
A DAY of Public Thanksgiving is due to Al-
-^^^ mighty God for blessings bestowed upon
the People of this State during the past year.
While a sanguinary war has been raging
upon our national frontier — while the principal
city of a sister state, has been scourged with a
pestilence that walketh at noon-day,* and while
gaunt famine and disease afflict the fairest por-
tion of the mother country ,f the State of New
York presents a gladsome picture of universal
happiness and prosperity. Seed time and har-
vest have been continued to the husbandman —
the laborer and the artisan have not sought in
vain for employment — the ships of the merchant
have traded in peace with the nations of the
earth, and plenty has crowned the efforts of all
classes of society.
The blessing of free government — the means
of universal education — the security of person
and property, and the supremacy of law and
* The yellow fever prevail-
ed in New Orleans this year.
■f The famine in Ireland of
this year, from the failure of
the potato crop, enlisted the
sympathies and aid of our
citizens generally.
mmm^-
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 107
order, have been vouchsafed to us in an eminent
degree.
For all these, and for other good gifts, we are
indebted to that Providence whose bounty and
protection are conferred upon all, without re-
gard to country" or condition.
I therefore respectfully recommend to the
People of this State, to observe the twenty- fifth
day of November next, as a day of Public
Thanksgiving; to abstain on that day from
their usual avocations, and mingle, with their
Thanksgivings, Prayers to Heaven for the con-
tinuance of its smiles, and for its protection
against famine, diseases and crime.
In testimony whereof, I have caused the
privy seal of the State to be hereunto
afSxed. Witness my hand, at the city
[l. s.] of Albany, this eighth day of October, in
the year of our Lord one thousand eight
hundred and forty-seven.
JOHN YOUNG.
108 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By John Young, Governor of the State of
New York.
nnHE year which will soon be added to the
-^ past, has been to the People of this State
eminently auspicious. Plenty has crowned our
harvests — labor has been justly rewarded, and
everything around us evidences a healthy and
enduring prosperty. War, with all its attend-
ant evils has passed away, and Peace as
honorable as welcome, has been restored.* The
means of education, and all the advantages of
intellectual progression have been enjoyed by
us in an eminent degree ; and the future is full
of hope and promise.
As a Christian people, we are admonished
that these blessings are the gift of a Beneficent
God, and while we thus rejoice in his bounty,
we should not forget the homage due from
grateful hearts.
I, therefore, respectfully recommend to the
People of this State, to set apart Thursday, the
twenty-third day of November next, to be ob-
served as a day of Public Thanksgiving to Al-
* Peace with Mexico was claimed by the President,
settled by the treaty of Que- July 4th, 1848.
retaro, May 30th, and pro-
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 109
mighty God ; and that with such Thanksgiving
be mingled Prayers to Him who holds in his
hands the destinies of nations, for the continu-
ance of those blessings, which have been and
still are so abundantly showered upon us.
In testimony whereof, I have caused the
privy seal of the State to be hereunto
affixed. Witness my hand, at the city
[l. s.] of Albany, this twenty-eighth day of
October, in the year of our Lord one
thousand eight hundred forty-eight.
JOHN YOUNG.
110 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By Hamilton Fish, Governor of the State
of New York.
SENSE of gratitude to Almighty God for his
numerous manifestations of goodness
during the past year, calls for a public expres-
sion of thanks from a people who have experi-
enced the full measures of blessings which have
been extended to us.
Peace and quiet have reigned throughout
our land. The labors of the husbandman have
been rewarded in the returns of the earth. In-
dustry has pursued its accustomed walks in all
its varied employments, and its votaries have
enjoyed honest and well earned rewards. Civil
and religious liberty continue to be vouchsafed
to all within our borders — and the blessings of
the gospel are extended to all who desire to
enjoy its comforts and its consolations. A few
weeks since the whole nation in humble de-
pendence, united in earnest prayer to Almighty
God to withdraw the grievous pestilence which
was ravaging the land ; that visitation having
passed, and the blessings of public health restor-
ed, it becomes a grateful and Christian people to
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
Ill
acknowledge these mercies and to render thanks
to their Bountiful Giver.*"
I do therefore designate Thursday, the twenty-
ninth day of November, instant, and do recom-
mend its observance by the People of this State
as a day of Public Thanksgiving to Almighty
God.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto signed
my name, and affixed the privy seal of
[l. s.] the State, at the city of Albany, this first
day of November, one thousand eight
hundred and forty- nine.
HAMILTON FISH.
* The cholera appeared in
New Orleans in the fall of
1848, and up to January 8,
1849, 1189 deaths had oc-
curred. It again appeared
in March, and from the third
of that month to the 28th of
April, 1071 died. It was also
very fatal at St. Louis, Cin-
cinnati, and other western
cities; and in New York, Phi-
ladelphia, and other cities in
the north. President Tyler
issued a Proclamation for a
National Fast, to be held on
the first Friday in August.
112 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PEOCLAMATION
By Hamilton Fish, Governor of the State
of New York.
HPhe mercies of All-kind Providence call for
-*- an acknowledgment of gratitude and de-
pendence from the creatures of his bounties.
The year which is about to close has been
marked by innumerable blessings to us as a
nation. An abundant harvest and profitable
labor has brought rich rewards to honest in-
dustry. Peace and tranquillity are established
at home ; and no discord disturbs our relations
abroad. Health, prosperity and abundance
have been freely vouchsafed to us. Civil and
religious liberty prevail throughout the length
and breadth of the land. And to all is secured
the free exercise of the worship of their Creator
according to their own faith. And on this oc-
casion we should not forget that while an In-
scrutable Providence has seen fit to remove
during the past year the Chief Magistrate of our
Union,* that same Providence has preserved us
under the trial, a free and an united people, has
saved us from anarchy or civil commotion, and
has continued to us the mild operation of a
* President Zachary Tay- lor died July 9, 1850.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 113
government of our own adoption, and rulers
of own choice.
1 do, therefore, designate and recommend
Thursday, the twelfth day of December next,
to be observed by the good people of this State
as a day of Public Thanksgiving to Almighty
God.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto sub-
scribed my name, and affixed the privy
[l. s.] seal of the State, at the city of Albany,
this thirty-first day of October, one thou-
sand eight hundred and fifty.
HAMILTON FISH.
15
114 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By Washington Hunt, Governor of the
State of New York.
rilHE goodness of Almighty God has been sig-
-*- nally manifested towards the People of this
State during the present year.
The blessings of liberty, national tranquillity
and public health, have been enjoyed without
interruption. The fruits of the earth, in over-
flowing abundance, have rewarded the labors
of the husbandman; public improvements have
been advanced ; the truths of knowledge and
religion more widely diffused, and our repub-
lican institutions preserved and strengthened.
A just sense of these beneficent dispensations,
should inspire universal gratitude towards our
Divine Benefactor, and call forth appropriate
demonstrations of homage and adoration.
Therefore, in compliance with usage, I re-
spectfully recommend to the People of this
State, the observance of Thursday, the twenty-
seventh day of November next, as a day of
Prayer, Thanksgiving and Praise.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto af-
fixed my hand and the privy seal of the
State, this sixteenth day of October, in
the year of our Lord one thousand eight
hundred and fifty-one.
WASHINGTON HUNT.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 115
PROCLAMATION
By Washington Hunt, Governor of the
State of New York.
rpHE varied blessings enjoyed by the People of
-■- this State, during the past year, call forth
the grateful tribute of praise and devotion due
to our Heavenly Father.
An abundant harvest crowning the labors of
the husbandman, and filling the land with
plenty ; peace with all nations ; the mainte-
nance of social order and free institutions, im-
parting fresh vigor to the cause of civil liberty ;
the diffusion of religion and learning; the gene-
ral prevalance of health ; the merciful deliver-
ance of the towns and cities, which were visited
for a season by the destroying pestilence,* and
the innumerable benefits which have been
conferred upon our Commonwealth, proclaim
the infinite goodness and protecting care of the
Creator and Supreme Ruler of the Univese.
In compliance with established usage, I re-
spectfully recommend to the people of this
State, the observance of Thursday, the twenty-
fifth day of November next, as a day of Prayer
and Thanksgiving.
* Cholera appeared in se- occurred in the city of New
veral parts of the State in York,
this year, and Z'Ji fatal cases
116 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto signed
my name and affixed the privy seal of
the State, at the city of Albany, this
[l. s.] sixteenth day of October, in the year of
our Lord, one thousand eight hundred
and fifty-two.
WASHINGTON HUNT.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 117
PROCLAMATION
By Horatio Seymour, Governor of the State
of New York.
T HEREBY appoint Thursday, the twenty-fourth
-*- instant, as a day of Thanksgiving for
the People of the State of New York. I
recommend its observance by such religious
assemblages and forms of worship as our citi-
zens may severally deem appropriate ; so that
we may, as a commonwealth, with united
hearts, humbly and gratefully render thanks to
our Father in Heaven, for his benefits, and
earnestly implore the continuance of his favor.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto sub-
scribed by name and affixed the privy
[l. s.] seal of the State, at the city of Albany,
this fifth day of November, one thousand
eight hundred and fifty-three.
HORATIO SEYMOUR.
118 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By Horatio Seymour, Governor of the State
of New York.
A N acknowledgment of our dependence upon
-^-^God, and of our obligations to him, is at all
times the duty of a Christian people. But
when the Almighty has again crowned the
'year with his goodness, and we are enjoying
the gathered fruits of his bounty, it is eminently
fitting that we should offer the sacrifice of
Praise and Thanksgiving.
I, therefore, appoint Thursday, the thirtieth
day of November, for the appropriate service,
and invite the Citizens of this State to assemble
on that day in their respective places of wor-
ship, to present their acknowledgments to the
Parent of the Universe for his multiplied
mercies, and with our Thanksgiving, let us
mingle Prayers for a continuance of the nume-
rous blessings, we, as a people, enjoy; remem-
bering that his wisdom alone can rightly direct,
his power support, and his goodness give
strength and security.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto sub-
scribed my name and affixed the privy
[l. s.] seal of the State, at the city of Albany,
this tenth day of November, one thou-
thousand eight hundred and fifty-four.
HORATIO SEYMOUR.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 119
PROCLAMATION
By Myron H. Clark, Governor of the State
of New York.
rpHE Lord has been pleased to preserve our
-*- lives, and to deal graciously with us during
another year. While sanguinary war has de-
solated the soil and saddened the homes of
Europe, peace has sat by our firesides, and
plenty has walked in our fields. The earth,
parched with no drought, and chilled by no
unwonted frosts, has yielded her increase boun-
teously. Pestilence, that has ravaged a neigh-
boring coast, has been stayed at our threshold,
and we have been enabled to minister to the
wants and necessities of the suffering and af-
flicted. The commercial, mechanical and va-
rious pursuits of our citizens, have been crowned
with usual success. Science and art have
made liberal progress among us, and religion,
unawed by power and unchecked by bigotry,
has imparted her divine teachings and minis-
tered her consolations. Our republican insti-
tutions, with good and wholesome laws, have
helped to lighten the burdens of our people,
and to advance the moral and intellectual im-
provement of society.
In grateful remembrance of our manifold
120 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
blessings, it becomes us to lift up our hearts to
God, the Giver of all Good, who carefully con-
sidereth all the dwellers upon the earth. I do,
therefore, and in pursuance of established cus-
tom, set apart and appoint Thursday, the
twenty-ninth day of November next, to be ob-
served throughout the State, as a day of Praise,
Thanksgiving and Prayer; and I respectfully
recommend to my fellow citizens, to abstain
from all secular occupations on that day, to
gather themselves in their assemblies and
render to our Heavenly Father the homage of
grateful hearts, remembering before him the
poor, the neglected and the oppressed. Let us,
as patriots and Christians, implore him to bless
our civil and religious institutions ; and let us
supplicate him to continue his favors to this
people throughout all generations, and withal
to dispense to us individually, that heavenly
grace, which, with faith in the Lord Jesus
Christ, and virtuous action here, will prepare
us for his heavenly kingdom.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto sub-
scribed my name and affixed the privy
[l. s.] seal of the State, at the city of Albany,
this twenty-seventh day of October, one
thousand eight hundred and fifty-five.
MYRON H. CLARK.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 121
PROCLAMATION
By his Excellency Myron H. Clark, Go-
vernor of the State of New York.
rr^HE year that is now drawing to a close, has
-"- been full of the mercies of our Heavenly
Father. The Providence that dispenses the
common blessings of life, has not withholden
its bounties. Throughout the borders of our
great and prosperous State, man has been pre-
served in the enjoyment of life and health. A
plenteous harvest has been gathered in, while
pestilence has only looked upon us and de-
parted.* Never has labor received rewards more
cheering ; no fear of famine ; no apprehension
of industrial distress or commercial panic ; no
dread of impending social calamity mingles
with our joy. Every department of honorable
human culture has advanced. The arts that
adorn a republican State have not languished.
The love of freedom has burned with a brighter
flame. Our political rights have remained safe
in the care of an enlightened and order loving
people. The public morals have not degene-
* Upon Staten Island, Long Governoi-'s Island and in
Island, in the vicinity of Fort New York city, 538 cases of
Hamilton, Bay Ridge, Gowa- yellow fever occurred this
nus, and South Brooklyn, on year.
16
122 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
rated ; and religion has not failed to cheer us by
her consolations ; to warn lis by her solemn
admonitions, and to inspire us by her eternal
hopes.
In view of this wonderful display of the good-
ness of God, nothing can be more appropriate
than a solemn act of Thanksgiving by the
whole people.
I do, therefore, and in pursuance of estab-
lished custom, set apart and appoint Thursday,
the twentieth day of November next, to be ob-
served throughout the State, as a day of Public
Thanksgiving and Praise. And I do respect-
fully request all the people of this State to ab-
stain on that day from their usual avocations ;
to assemble according to their religious cus-
toms, and give thanks to Almighty God, the
Giver of All Good. Let us implore him to smile
upon our future and make us worthy of his
bounties, and to protect and preserve those
institutions Avhich enable man to glorify God
and to do his will upon earth. Let us especially
thank him, that the great privilege of the
American citizen, the untrammeled expression
of opinion, the defence of truth and justice, and
the denunciation of error and oppression is still
ours. And while we pray for forgiveness of
our sins, as citizens of the State, and subjects
of the Divine Government, let us consecrate
ourselves anew, on that day, to a religious life,
which neglects no private or public obligation
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 123
OH oarth, while it confides in the grace of God,
for the hope of an immortal life in heaven.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto signed
my name and affixed the privy seal of the
State, at the city of Albany, this twenty-
JL. s ] first day of October, in the year of our
Lord one thousand eight hundred and
fifty-six.
MYEON H. CLARK.
124:
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By his Excellency John A. King, Governor
of the State of New York.
N humble sense of our dependence on Al-
mighty God, for all the benefits and bless-
ings we enjoy, renders it especially proper at
this time, to return our thanks to the Great
Giver of All Good for another year of plenteous
harvests and general health. The promise that
seed time and harvest shall never fail, has been
most signally manifested during the past sea-
son, while health and contentment have dwelt
within our borders. For these gracious mani-
festations of the power and goodness of God, I
recommend the People of this State to assem-
ble together, and to raise their united praise
and thanks to him, in whose hands are the
issues of life and death, that they have been
permitted to witness and enjoy, during an-
other year, the noble works of his hands — the
fostering care of his goodness and mercy. To
that end, and in accordance with the established
usage, Thereby designate and appoint Thursday,
the twenty-sixth day of November next, as a
day of General Thanksgiving and Praise to Al-
mighty God, our Heavenly Father ; and invite
all to unite in so meet and right an acknow-
THANKSGIVING PROCLAIM ATIONS. 125
ledgment of his power and goodness, and of
our own helplessness.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto signed
my name and affixed the privy seal of
the State, at the city of Albany, this
[l. s.] seventeenth day of October, in the year
of our Lord one thousand eight hundred
and fifty-seven.
JOHN A. KING.
126 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By John A. King, Governor of the State of
New York.
A NOTHER year of abundant harvests, of gene-
-^-^ ral health, contentment and tranquillity
admonishes us of our first and constant duty,
to render thanks and praise to Him, who is the
Gracious Author and Giver of those needful be-
nefits, and the manifold blessings we have been
permitted to enjoy; and especially are we called
upon to acknowledge the power and goodness
of our Almighty Father, the Lord and Giver of
Life, that we have been spared for another brief
space to receive his merciful care ; to behold
the wonderful works of his Providence, and to
enjoy the advantages and security, which free-
dom, the public schools and equal laws, have
established for ourselves and for our posterity.
To that end, therefore, and in accordance with
the acknowledged usage, I hereby designate
and appoint Thursday, the eighteenth day of
November next, as a day of General Thanks-
giving and Praise to Almighty God, and invite
all to unite in so just an acknowledgment of
his power and goodness, and of our dependence
on his mercy and forbearance.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 127
In witness whereof, I have hereunto af-
fixed my name and the privy seal of the
State, at the city of Albany, the eleventh
[l. s.] day of October, in the year of our Lord
one thousand eight hundred and fifty-
eight.
JOHN A. KING.
128 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATIONS OF GOVERNORS
FOR 1858.
PROCLAMATION
By Andrew B. Moore, Governor of the State
of Alabama.
Executive Department, >
Montgomery, Ala., Oct. 26, 1858. )
"V^THt^REAS, it is becoming that a people which
^ " recognizes the existence of God, and ac-
knowledges its dependence upon his will,
should unite as a community in some public
demonstration of its gratitude for the blessings
he has conferred, and to invoke a continuance
of his favor.
Now therefore, I, Andrew B. Moore, Govern-
or of the State of Alabama, do hereby desig-
nate and appoint Thursday, the twenty-fifth
day of November next, lor that purpose, and re-
commend and request that the good people of
this Commonwealth, of every religious persua-
sion, should thereupon assemble at their re-
spective places of worship, to return thanks to
Almighty God for his manifold blessings;
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 129
for the prosperity that has attended them in
their daily vocations; for the peace and plenty
which have prevailed among them, their gene-
ral exemption from pestilence, and for the civil
and religious liberty they possess ; and that
they should at the same time beseech him for
their moral and intellectual advancement and
material welfare, for their preservation from
pestilence and famine, from internal broils and
civil commotions of all kinds, from foreign and
domestic war ; that both the Federal and State
Governments may be administered faithfully,
with a view solely to the purposes of their es-
tablishment ; that the hostile spirit which ex-
ists towards them in a portion of the States
with which they have been united in a com-
mon government may abate and determine ;
but that should it continue and unfortunately
progress until it shall become necessary for
them to sever the bonds which now connect
them, and resume the powers they have grant-
ed, that they may be so guided by his wisdom
and strengthened by his aid that finally they
may "establish justice, insure domestic tran-
quillity, provide for the common defence, pro-
mote the general welfare, and secure the
blessings of liberty to themselves and their
posterity."
Given under my hand and the Great Seal
of the State, affixed at Montgomery, this
[l. s.] twenty-sixth day of October, Anno Do-
17
130 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
mini one thousand eight hundred and
fifty-eight, and of American Independ-
ence the eighty-third year.
ANDREW B. MOORE,
By the Governor.
J. H. Weaver, Secretary of State.
TIIANKSGIVIXG PROCLAMATIONS. 131
PROCLAMATION
By Lot M. Morrill, Governor of the State
of Maine.
\lTiTH the advice of the Executive Council,
^* I appoint Thursday, the twenty-fifth day
of November next, as a day of Public Thanks-
giving and Praise.
The continual bounties and manifold mercies
of a Superintending and All-wise Providence,
call for expressions of unfeigned gratitude and
devout praise. The Infinite Father, eternal
source of all good, hath crowned the year with
abundance ; let every heart glow with grateful
love. A God of love, the fountain of all mer-
cies, hath averted the causes of public distress;
let all unite in songs of adoration.
All nature proclaims the goodness and glory
of God, maker of heaven and earth ; how fit
that his intelligent oflfspring should acknow-
ledge him in Thanksgiving and Praise, as the
author of all needful blessings, and their de-
pendence on his forbearance and loving kind-
ness. Especially doth it become us as a people
to join in public celebration of the Divine Good-
ness for the innumerable blessings vouchsafed
at every period of our national existence ; for
132 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
succor in the struggle of our fathers for inde-
pendence ; for guidance in laying the founda-
tion of free institutions ; for fostering care in
their infancy ; for preservation amid perils in-
ternal and external, and for that paternal favor
which has attended our country's progress from
weakness and dependence to prosperity and
power ; and to render thanks, moreover, to the
Great Ruler of the earth, for the precious boon
of civil and religious liberty ; for the multiplied
agencies of social and political amelioration,
and the means of spiritual improvement.
Given at the Council Chamber at Augusta,
this fifteenth day of October, in the year
[l. s.] of our Lord one thousand eight hundred
and fifty-eight, and of the Independence
of the United States the eighty-third.
LOT M. MORRILL.
By the Governor.
Noah Smith, Jr., Secretary of State.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 133
PROCLAMATION
By William Haile, Governor of the State
of New Hampshire.
Xt has been customary for the Executive of
-*- the State to appoint and set apart one day
from the ordinary industrial pursuits of life, to
be observed as a day of Thanksgiving and
Praise to the Supreme Ruler of the Universe
for his continued goodness, and in token of our
remembrance of the innumerable blessings con-
ferred upon us as individuals, and upon our
State.
In conformity, therefore, with the time-honor-
ed custom of our ancestors, and in unison with
the general sentiment and wishes of the people,
I do, with the advice and consent of the Coun-
cil, appoint Thursday, the twenty-fifth day of
November next, to be observed thoroughout the
State as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise.
And on that day I would invite the people of the
State to assemble in their respective places of
public worship, and with united hearts render
sincere praise to our Creator and Benefactor,
that we have been preserved for another year
to receive and enjoy the blessings which he
has so freely and bountifully conferred upon
134 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
US. And while we are thankful for past favors
so signally displayed, and while we invoke a
continuance of the same, let us endeavor to
manifest by our lives that we are truly mindful
of Him who is the Author and Giver of all
needful blessings.
Given at the Council Chamber, in Con-
cord, this twenty-ninth day of Septem-
ber, in the year of our Lord one thousand
eight hundred and fifty-eight, and of the
Independence of the United States the
eighty-third.
WILLIAM HAILE.
By His Excellency the Governor, with ad-
vice of Council.
Thomas L. Tullock, Secretary of State.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 135
PROCLAMATION
By Elisha Dyer, Governor of the State of
Rhode Island and Providence Planta-
tions.
"Tn accordance with a " time-honored custom,"
-'- and as required by law, I, Elisha Dyer,
Governor of the State of Rhode Island and Pro-
vidence Plantations, do issue this my Procla-
mation, appointing Thursday, the twenty-fifth
day of November next, as a day of Public
Thanksgiving and Praise to Almighty God, for
the innumerable blessings he has bestowed
upon us, the people of this State, during the
past year.
The preservation of our li\res; the absence of
contagious disease ; the abundant harvest that
has so richly rewarded the labors of the hus-
bandman ; the unrestricted enjoyment of our
civil rights and religious privileges; the wide
spread manifestations and presence of the Holy
Spirit; the "means of grace and hope of glory"
still offered us in the religion of Jesus Christ,
all proclaim his dealings with us to have been
in mercy and with love.
And we should also remember with gratitude
that this day commemorates the departure in
136 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
former years of those who would have oppress-
ed our country, and the assurance, so recently
given, that a bond of peace and fraternity may
be established between all nations.
I, therefore, appeal with confidence to the
grateful appreciation of these mercies, by my fel-
low-citizens throughout the State, for their co-
operation in the proper observance of this day,
by abstaining from all secular labor, in their
attendance upon public worship, and by the
dispensation of that sympatlietic benevolence
which the prostration of industry has demanded;
thus cheering the hearts of the desolate, and
making glad the homes of the destitute.
Given under my hand and seal of this State
this twenty-seventh day of October, in
[l. s.] the year of our Lord one thousand eight
hundred and fifty-eight, and of Inde-
pendence the eighty-third,
ELISHA PYER.
Attest.
John R. Bartlett, Secretary of State.,
THANKSGIVING TROCLAMATIONS. 137
PROCLAMATION
By His Excellency William A. Bucking-
ham, Governor of the State of Connec-
ticut.
Tt is both the duty and privilege of a Christian
people, to recognize their obligations to the
Bountiful Giver of All Good. During the past
year we have experienced fresh and continued
evidence of the divine favor and forbearance.
Therefore I have thought proper to recom-
mend, and I do hereby recommend, that Thurs-
day, the twenty-fifth day of November next, be
set apart as a day of Public Thanksgiving and
Praise throughout this Commonwealth, and I
earnestly invite and urge all persons to unite
on that day in a public manifestation of their
gratitude to Almighty God, who has crowned
the year with his goodness; in that he has
caused the earth to bring forth its fruits in their
season ; that he has averted from us the pesti-
lence and the sword ; that he has saved us
from civil commotion and the supremacy of
evil passions; that a deeper interest is felt in
our public schools and seminaries of learning;
that progress has been made in the arts, in the
sciences and in civilization; that public justice
18
138 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
I
» is administered under the sanction of law ; that
freedom of opinion, of speech, and of conscience,
is vindicated ; that the love of civil and religious
liberty is deeply seated in the hearts of the peo-
ple ; that the Independence of the States and of
the Federal Union, is still preserved ; and above
all, that " He hath not dealt with us after our
sins, nor rewarded us according to our iniqui-
ties," but has magnified the riches of his grace
in giving his Holy Spirit to revive his work and
lead sinners to repentance ; and that the door
of mercy is yet open, through which the guilty
and perishing may enter and obtain eternal
life, by faith in the atonement of Jesus Christ
his Son.
Given under my hand and seal of the
State, at the city of Norwich, this the
twenty-second day of October, in the
[l. s.] year of our Lord one thousand eight
hundred and fifty-eight, and of the Inde-
pendence of the United States the eigh-
ty-third.
WILLIAM A. BUCKINGHAM.
By His Excellency's command.
John Boyd, Secretary of State.
THANKSGIVING PflOCLAiMATIONS. 139
PROCLAMATION
By William A. Newell, Governor of the
State of New Jersey.
rpHE first and constant duty of a Christian
-*- people, is to recognize and acknowledge
Almighty God as the Author and Giver of All
Good, and to render to him humble and grate-
ful homage for his merciful providence and
care.
Another year passed in the enjoyment of the
inestimable blessings of liberty, peace, health
and plenty, calls for our renewed and devout
expressions of gratitude and praise.
To this end, and in accordance with recog-
nized usages, I hereby set apart and appoint
Thursday, the eighteenth day of November
next, to be observed as a day of Thanksgiving
and Prayer, and do recommend to the people
of this State, that forsaking all secular pursuits,
they assemble in their several places of wor-
ship, and in sincerity of heart, offer thanks and
praise to our Heavenly Father for all the bless-
ings of the past, and implore his loving kind-
ness and protection for the future.
140 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
Given under my hand and privy seal, at
Trenton, this twenty-sixth day of Octo-
[l. s.] ber. Anno Domini one thousand eight
hundred and fifty-eight.
WILLIAM A. NEWELL.
Attest.
Enoch R. Borden, Private Secretary.
THANKSGIVING PKOCLAMATIONS. 141
PROCLAMATION
By Ashbcl P. Willard, Governor of the
State of Indiana.
\ PEOPLE who have been as highly favored
•^-^ as Those of Indiana, in all that makes
them free, independent and prosperous, may
well, upon one day in each year, assemble to
return their thanks for these blessings to Al-
mighty God.
I therefore appoint Thursday the twenty-fifth
day of November, Anno Domini one thousand
eight hundred and fifty-eight, as a day of Pub-
lic Thanksgiving and Prayer, urging all to as-
semble and return thanks to the Supreme Ruler
of the Universe, for the blessings he has con-
ferred and the mercies he has extended to the
People of the State of Indiana.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set
my hand and caused to be affixed the
seal of the State of Indiana. Done at
the city of Indianapolis, this first day of
[l. s.] November, in the year of our Lord eigh-
teen hundred and fifty-eight, the year of
the State the forty-third, and the Inde-
pendence of the United States the eighty-
third.
ASHBEL P. WILLARD.
By the Governor.
Cyrus L. Dunham, Secretary of State. •
142 THANKSGIVING PIIOOLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By Kinsley S. Bingham, Governor of the
State of Michigan.
N conformity to a well-established custom, I
have thought proper to designate, and I
hereby appoint Thursday, the twenty-fifth day
of November, as a day of General Thanksgiving
and Praise to Almighty God.
On that day I earnestly invite the good
people of this State to assemble in their
several places of worship, and make a public
and grateful acknowledgment of the goodness
of Divine Providence, which has brought us
safely through another year with blessings and
mercies innumerable. Let us be thankful for
propitious seasons, in which the fruits of the
earth have ripened and been gathered to supply
our wants ; for peace and tranquillity ; for the
tolerance of free thought and free discussion;
for the unabated zeal which animates our
people to educate and enlighten, and thus ele-
vate and improve all classes; for the love of
liberty and the desire to perpetuate free insti-
tutions which prevails ; for the serious thought
which so many have given to the duties they
owe their Maker and their fellow-men, and
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 143
which has prompted the resohition "to do
justly, love rnercy, and walk humbly before
God." And let us earnestly implore a continu-
ance of the blessing's which have been show-
ered so abundantly upon our favored land.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto sub-
scribed my name and caused the great
seal of the State to be affixed, at the
[l. s.] Capitol in Lansing, this twentieth day
of October, in tjie year of our Lord one
thousand eight hundred and fifty-eight.
KINSLEY S. BINGHAM.
By the Governor.
John McKinney, Secretary of State.
144 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By William H. Bissell, Governor of the
State of Illinois.
rr^HE year now about to close has been one of
-^ unnumbered blessings. And although in
some portions of our State the harvest has been
less bountiful than we have been accustomed
to receive, and in some localities more sickness
than usual has marked the season, yet upon
the whole it has been a year of eminent pros-
perity to our citizens — such as should content
and gladden every heart, and bow us to the
earth in gratitude and thankfulness to Him
who is the source of all goodness and wisdom.
Therefore that the good people of our State
may join in offerings of Thanksgivings for our
manifold blessings, I recommend Thursday, the
twenty-fifth day of November next, be set apart
and observed by them as a day of Thanksgiving
and Prayer. Let, for that day, all temporal
matters of business be suspended, all worldly
affairs be set aside, and let us, with hearts of
forgiveness, each towards all others, unite in
Praise and Thanksgiving to God for the count-
less blessings of the closing year.
WILLIAH H. BISSELL.
Springfield, 111., Oct. 26, 1858.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 145
PROCLAMATION
By Alexander W. Randall, Governor of the
State of Wisconsin.
Tn the good Providence of God another year
-*- has passed, and its memories and its fruits
have been gathered up. Toward all mankind
he has exhibited abundant mercies, and upon
us he has showered innumerable blessings.
Seed time and harvest came and are gone, and
the fat earth hath yielded its great harvests
and its fruits, every tree and every plant bear-
ing seed after its kind. His bow has been still
in the clouds. His avenging rod has been
withheld, and the pestilence that walketh in
darkness, and the destruction that wasteth
at noonday have passed by us.
In science and art, and in intellectual deve-
lopment, the whole earth has been astonished
at continued and startling successes and
achievements. All trades, business avocations,
professions and pursuits, have met everywhere
with the success they have deserved. In all
things commendable and useful, and of good
report, we have met the approving smile of our
Father who is in Heaven.
The works of the Lord are great, sought out
of all them that have pleasure therein.
19
.146 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
His work is honorable and glorious, and his
righteousness cndureth forever.
He hath made his wonderful works to be
remembered ; the Lord is gracious and full of
compassion.
He hath given meat unto them that fear him;
he will ever be mindful of his convenant.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of
wisdom ; a good understanding have all they
that do his commandments; his praise endureth
forever.
For all his bounties and mercies, and loving
kindness and care, we owe the homage of
grateful, humble and obedient hearts. Follow-
ing a venerable and wisely instituted custom, I,
therefore, do here appoint, Thursday, the
twenty-fifth day of November next, as a day of
Thanksgiving and Prayer and Praise. And I
commend that day to the observance of the
good people of this State, enjoining them to ab-
stain thereon from all secular avocations and
employments, excepting only works of necessity
and mercy.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto sub-
scribed my name, and caused the Great
Seal of the State of Wisconsin to be
affixed.
[l. s.] Done at Madison, this twenty-seventh
day of October, in the year of our Lord,
one thousand eight hundred and fifty-
eight. ALEX. W. RANDALL.
J, D. RucfGLES, Ass't Sec'y of State.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 147
PROCLAMATION
By William F. Packer, Governor of the
State of Pennsylvania.
In the Name and by the Authority of the Com-
monwealth of Pennsylvania.
"C^ELLOW-ClTIZENS :
-^ The goodness of God to i^s as a people,
calls for our public acknowledgment and our
grateful praise. The past and the present are
crowded with his blessings. Nothing has oc-
curred to imperil the principles of civil and re-
ligious liberty upon which our government is
based, or to interfere with its harmonious ope-
rations in all its departments. We are at
peace with all foreign nations, and the noise of
violence is unheard within our borders. While
all enjoy perfect freedom of opinion, the genial
influences of our free institutions, and the mild
spirit of our holy religion, are more and more
uniting us in one brotherhood. Our educa-
tional institutions are diftusing intelligence
among the masses of our citizens, inducing a
higher appreciation of their privileges, and a
deeper sense of their obligations. Though in
some localities the pestilence has prevailed, our
148 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
country at large has enjoyed unusual health,
and we are blessed with an abundance of all
the necessaries and comforts of life. Our in-
dustrial pursuits are fast recovering from the
torpor induced by the recent financial embar-
rassments; confidence is being restored, and
business is resuming its wonted activity. Mer-
cies crown all our relations in life, and the
hopes of a glorious immortality wait to cheer
and bless every heart.
Prompted by my own convictions of duty,
and in conformity with the expressed wishes
of many of my lellow-citizens, I, William F.
Packer, Governor of the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania, do hereby appoint Thursday the
eighteenth day of November next, to be ob-
served as a day of General Thanksgiving and
Prayer, and recommend to all our people that,
setting aside on that day all worldly pursuits,
they assemble in their respective places of wor-
ship, and unite in offering thanks to God for
his goodness, imploring his gracious forgive-
ness and the continuance of his mercies. And
while our hearts throb with gratitude to God,
for his unnumbered blessings, let a liberal cha-
rity be extended to all upon whom have been
laid the burdens of misfortune and want.
Given under my hand and the great seal
of the State, at Harrisburg, this twenty-
eighth day of October, in the year of
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 149
[l. s.] our Lord one thousand eight hundred
and fifty-eight, and of the Common-
wealth the eighty-third.
WILLIAM F. PACKER.
William M. Hiester, Secretary
of the Commonwealth.
150
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By Henry H. Sibley, Governor of the Ter-
ritory of Minnesota.
npHE Governor is required by law to " set
-*- apart one day in each year, as a day of
solemn and Public Thanksgiving to Almighty
God for his blessings to us as a State and Na-
tion." I do, therefore, designate and set apart
Thursday, the twenty-fifth day of November
next, for that purpose, and I earnestly recom-
mend to the people of Minnesota that they ab-
stain from all unnecessary secular employments
on that day, and repair to their accustomed
places of worship, to render thanks to the Most
High, for all his mercies vouchsafed to us as a
State and a Nation.
No business will be transacted on that day
at any of the Departments of State Govern-
ment.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set
my hand and caused the great seal of
the State to be affixed at St. Paul, the
[l. s.] Capitol thereof, this thirtieth day of Oc-
tober, A. D. one thousand eight hundred
and fifty-eight, and of the State the
second.
HENRY H. SIBLEY.
By the Governor.
Francis Baasen. Secretary of State.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. lol
PROCLAMATION
By Thomas H. Hicks, Governor of the
State of Maryland.
State of Maryland, to wit:
Tn accordance with the custom hitherto pre-
-*- vailing in this vState, and now sanctioned
by the established usage, that some convenient
day should be designated by the Chief Civil
Authority to be observed as an especial day of
Thanksgiving to Almighty God, for the great
benefits we have received at his hands ; and in
order to comply with the general expectation
and desire of the inhabitants of this State who
wish to unite, on such day, with the people of
other States, in a service so just and becoming
a Christian nation — I, Thomas Holliday Hicks,
Governor of the State of Maryland, do hereby
designate and appoint Thursday, the twenty-
fifth day of November next, to be observed in
this State as a day of Public Thanksgiving and
Prayer. And I invite and request the good
people of this State to keep and observe that
day, by abstaining from all secular employ-
ments; by uniting in their respective places of
worship in public acts of devotion, in gratitude
to the Creator for the benefits of the past, im-
152
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
N
ploring his blessing and guidance in the future,
and by joining there, or at their homes, in such
services and exercises as are appropriate, on
the anniversary of a great national deliverance,
to a day of Thanksgiving and Praise.
Given under my hand and the great seal
of the State, in the Executive Chamber
[l. s.] at the city of Annapolis, this twenty-
ninth day of October, in the year eigh-
teen hundred and fifty-eight.
TH. H. HICKS.
By the Governor.
James R. Partridge, Secretary of State.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 153
PROCLAMATION
By Ralph P. Lowe, Governor of the State
of Iowa.
rilHE people of Iowa will do themselves an
-^ important service by observing Thursday,
the twenty-fifth day of November next, as a
day of Praise and Thanksgiving to the Lord of
Heaven ; for that his name is still excellent in
all the earth, and that he is never weary in the
dispensation of his benefits and blessings.
If he has not filled our barns with a plentiful
harvest the past season, he has nevertheless
given us remarkable health, watered our beau-
tiful plains bountifully with the showers of
God, that they may be prepared for a greater
increase of fruits.
By his Providence he has shown to us the
strange evanescence of riches which have
wings, the folly of attempting to fare sumptu-
ously every day in vain schemes of speculation,
instead of hardening the hand and moistening
the brow with honest toil.
For these and all the other mercies of life,
let us on that day go into our temples of wor-
ship, and fill them with thank-offerings to the
God of our Fathers.
Praise him for giving to this whole land so
20
154 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
largely of his spirit, by which the faces of mul-
titudes have been turned heavenward.
Praise him for the Christian's faith, the spread
of our holy religion, the triumphs of science
and the progress making in the peaceful arts.
Praise him for the moral and social improve-
ments of the race, by means of the intercom-
munication of telegraphs and railways.
Let the spirit of divine truth be invoked to
push forward all the great enterprises of the
age, and that the out-goings of the morning
and evening may still continue to rejoice over
us.
Given at Des Moines, under my hand and
the great seal of the State of Iowa, the
[l. s.] twenty-jfifth day of October, Anno Do-
mini one thousand eight hundred and
fifty-eight.
EALPH P. LOWE.
By the Governor.
Elijah Sells, Secretary of State.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 155
PROCLAMATION
By Robert M. Stewart, Governor of the
State of Missouri.
nnHE end of another year is approaching. The
-*- gladsome season of opening buds, of refresh-
ing showers, of genial sunshine, and of golden,
waving fields of ripening cereals, have again
been enjoyed, and are past. The husbandman
is now garnering the rich stores with which
a beneficent Providence is wont to bless the
labors of our most highly favored people.
Abundant harvests have rewarded the toils of
the farmer, and success the honest earnest ef-
forts of all classes. Health in the main, has
given firmness to our footsteps, and vigor to
the ultimatum of our purposes ; and peace has
imparted confidence to our numerous enter-
prises, and enhanced our blessings with the lull
of security and the beatitude of contentment.
Heaven has showered its noblest gifts upon us.
Religious freedom, civil liberty, and the pro-
tection of individual rights, are the common
heritage of all. Material wealth, intellectual
attainments, and the rewards of virtue, are
offered alike to all and they have not sought in
vain who have sought aright.
156 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
It is proper that we should recognize the
hand which has so bountifully provided for our
happiness. It is right that we should acknow-
ledge our manifold obligations to the Giver of
all we possess and enjoy. It is our highest pri-
vilege to cherish a sincrere gratitude to " Him
in whom we live and move and have our
being." I have deemed it proper, therefore, in
conformity with a custom which, with a wise
regard for our highest interests, may ever be
observed, to name a day on which the people
of the State may, with one accord, devoutly
offer Public Thanksgiving to the Great Source
of life and its blessings.
In considering the day most appropriate, the
twenty-fifty day of November is suggested as
eminently suitable. On that day, one thou-
sand seven hundred eighty-three, the armed
foe of American Independence evacuated the
enemy's fortification and ceased to tread Ameri-
can soil. On that day the complete and per-
fect independence of the American nation was
consummated, and liberty, civil and religious,
unawed and undisputed, was proclaimed as
the universal heritage of all those sheltered by
the American Eagle, or who might thereafter
seek an asylum under his ever expanding wings.
On that day for the first time, undisturbed by
the representative of despotism, and unrestrain-
ed by the terrors of any external foe, the fathers
of American Freedom shouted from the hill-
y
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 157
tops, the glad tidings that universal religious
tolerance, civil liberty, and the political equal-
ity of our race, regardless of the land of birth,
is established, and shall forever have an abid-
ing place upon the earth ; that henceforth the
American Continent shall be an asylum for the
oppressed — " the land of the free." What day
so appropriate for the outpouring of the grati-
tude of the American people?
In view, therefore, of the many causes of
gratitude which we continually enjoy, and of
the occasion which renders eminently appro-
priate the day designated^ I, Robert M. Stewart,
Governor of the State of Missouri, do, by this
proclamation, recommend to the people of this
State, that they observe Thursday, the twenty-
fifth day of November next, as a fitting day for
Thanksgiving to Almighty God, and in humble
prayer to him for a continuance of his blessings.
In testimony whereof, I have hitherto set
my hand, and caused the great seal of
State to be affixed. Done at the city of
Jefierson, this, the twenty-sixth day of
[l. s.] October, A. D. one thousand eight hun-
dred and fifty-eight, of the Independence
of the United States the eighty-third,
and of the State of Missouri the thirty-
eiffht,
R. M. STEWART.
By the Governor,
B. F. Massev, Secretary of State.
158
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION*
By William McWillie, Governor of the
State of Mississippi.
Executive Office,
City of Jackson, Miss.,
October 12, 1858.
"VirrHEREAS it is a time-honored custom, and
' " is of itself right and proper and becom-
ing in a Christian people to observe annually
a day of Thanksgiving, I do hereby appoint
Thursday, the twenty-fifth day of November
next, for that purpose, and request its general
observance throughout the State ; for of all the
people who have existed, none could so truly
say, " The lines have fallen to us in pleasant
places, and we have a goodly heritage." Then
let us unite in one General Thanksgiving, ex-
claiming with the Psalmist, "Unto thee, O God,
do we give thanks ; yea, unto thee do we give
thanks."
WM. McWILLTE.
* A note appended to this insert it in their papers un-
Proclamation, and signed by til the twenty-fifth of No-
the Governor, requested all vember; and the Clergy ge-
the Editors in the State to nerally to give it publicity.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 159
PROCLAMATION
By His Excellency, Nathaniel P. Banks,
Governor of the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts.
"Oy advice and with consent of the Council, I
-*^ have appointed and do hereby appoint
Thursday, the twenty-fifth day of November
next, a day of Thanksgiving and Praise ; and I
recommend to the people in observance of this
ancient and religious custom of the founders of
the Commonwealth, to suspend ordinary vo-
cations and pleasures, and to assemble on that
day in the usual places of public worship, for
the purpose of acknowledging our continued
dependence upon his Providence, and to render
thanks to Almighty God for the manifold and
signal mercies he has bestowed upon us, upon
our fathers and upon the great family of man ;
That he has preserved our people in health,
in prosperity, in peace and in freedom :
That he has secured to us the rewards of in-
telligent industry, and the wealth of the seas,
the soil and the seasons :
That he has crowned with success all our
institutions and labors for the moral and mental
culture of our people, and the relief of those
oppressed in mind, in body or estate :
160 THANKSGIVING PEOCLAMATIONS.
That he has protected us, in the enjoyment
of the privileges of a government, which com-
bines with rare felicity the freedom of indivi-
duals, the supervision of the family, and the
authority of the State :
That he has suppressed traditional feuds and
assuaged the animosities of nations, leading
them through the marvelous developments of
science to cultivate a civilizing and Christian
intercourse with each other, instead of increas-
ing the atrocities of war, and strengthening the
lust for dominion.
And especially that he has given us that fixed
and abiding faith in his Providence, which
sustains us amidst the direst calamities and
teaches us that all events in life or death — some-
times interpreted by the imperfect wisdom of
man as misfortune — may be overruled through
his grace, for the welfare of his people, and the
glory of his name.
Given at the Council Chamber, in Boston,
this twenty-seventh day of October, in
the year of our Lord, one thousand eight
hundred and fifty-eight, and of the In-
[l. s.] dependence of the United States the
eighty-third.
By his Excellency the Governor, with
the advice of the Council.
NATHANIEL P. BANKS.
Oliver Warner, Secretary.
God save the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. iGl
PROCLAMATION
By Joseph E. Brown, Governor of the State
of Georgia.
A^T^HEREAS, it has pleased Almighty God to
^ * smile upon us as a people, in much mercy,
during another year; to crown our labors with
rich blessings, to protect and preserve us from
war, hunger and pestilence, and to pour out
his holy spirit upon us in copious showers.
And whereas, these manifestations of his pro-
tecting care and loving kindness, admonish us
of the debt of gratitude, which we, as a people
of a great State, owe to the Giver of every good
and perfect gift, and of our duty to be humble
and thankful, rendering praise to his great
name, " in psalms and hymns and spiritual
songs, singing and making melody in our hearts
to the Lord, giving thanks always for all
things."
I do, therefore, issue this my Proclamation,
setting apart Thursday, the twenty-fifth day of
this present month, as a day of Thanksgiving
and Prayer. And I do earnestly invite the dif-
ferent congregations composing all the reli-
gious denominations of every name in this State,
to meet at their respective places of worship,
on that day, and unite in returning thanks and
21
162 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
singing praises to our God for his wondrous
works in the past, and in fervent prayer for
his protecting care in the future, remembering
that the Psalmist has said : " Let the people
praise thee, then shall the earth yield her in-
crease, and God, even our God, shall bless us."
Given under my hand and the Seal of the
Executive Department, at the Capitol in
Milledgeville, this fourth day of Novem-
[l. s.] ber, in the year of our Lord, one thou-
sand eight hundred and fifty-eight, and
of the Independence of the United States
of America the eighty-third.
JOSEPH E. BROWN.
By the Governor.
H. H. Waters, Secretary, Ex. Dep.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 163
PROCLAMATION
By Salmon P. Chase, Governor of the
State of Ohio.
Tn compliance with a joint resolution of the
-*- General Assembly, I, Salmon P. Chase,
Governor of the State of Ohio, hereby appoint
Thursday, the twenty-fifth day of November,
one thousand eight hundred and fifty-eight, as
a day of Public Thanksgiving and Prayer to Al-
mighty God : and I earnestly recommend to
the people of the State the due observance of
that day, by abstinence from ordinary labors,
by public and private offerings of praise and
gratitude for the multiform and manifold bless-
ings and benefits, national, social and personal,
which God hath been graciously pleased to be-
stow upon us, and by fervent prayers that he will
cause his goodness to abound yet more and
more towards us, protecting our whole country
from foreign enemies and domestic dissensions,
distinguishing by his favor, our State Institu-
tions of Government, education and benevo-
lence, and conducting each of us through bless-
ed ways of penitence and faith to the glorious
164 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
consummation of earthly hopes in heavenly-
rest.
Given under my hand and the great seal
of the State of Ohio, this eighth day of
[l. s.] November, A. D. one thousand eight
hundred and fifty-eight.
S. P. CHASE.
By the Governor.
A. P. Russell, Secretary of State.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 165
PROCLAMATION
By Robert F. AV. AUston, Governor of the
State of South Carolina.
'VIT'hereas, whilst we humbly bow before the
* * Almighty, in meek submission to the
will of his inscrutable Providence, chastening
as with disappointment of some cherished
hopes, with disease, with loss of faithful and
valuable citizens, it becomes us as a people,
now that the pestilence is stayed in the city,
and the bright beams of the autumnal sun,
with a bracing atmosphere, has dissipated the
malaria of the fruitful country — now that the
harvest-home is over, and the staple results of
the seasons, wherever diminished, are still
greater than we deserve at the hands of a
bountiful Benefactor, " to assemble and meet
together to render thanks for the great benefits
that we have received at his hands, to set forth
his most worthy praise, to hear his most holy
word, and to ask those things which are re-
quisite and necessary as well for the body as
the soul."
Now, therefore, I deem it meet to appoint
and set apart, Thursday, the twenty-fifih of
November instant, as a day of Thanksgiving
166 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
and Prayer. Accordingly, I do invite all per-
sons on that day to assemble at their respective
places of worship to return thanks for our nu-
merous blessings past and present, and to pray
for the divine guidance and blessing in our
future life.
Given under my hand and seal of the
State, at Columbia, this eleventh day of
November, in the year of our Lord one
[l. s.] thousand eight hundred and fifty-eight,
and in the eighty-third year of the
American Independence.
ROBERT F. W. ALLSTON.
James Patterson, Secretary of State.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 167
PROCLAMATION
By Madison S. Perry, Governor of the State
of Florida.
"VXT'hereas, it is right and proper for States as
* * well as individuals, to return thanks to
Almighty God, for his manifold blessings and
mercies ; and whereas, the fourth Thursday in
November has been by usage and custom,
adopted by most of the States of the Union^ as
a day of Thanksgiving ; and in order that said
day may be observed with uniformity through-
out the United States ; Therefore,
I, Madison S. Perry, do by this my Public
Proclamation, set aside Thursday, the twenty-
fifth day of November, as a day of Public
Thanksgiving, and respectfully ask the clergy
of all religious denominations, to open their
houses of worship, and deliver addresses suited
to such an occasion, and request the good
people of the State to lay aside their usual
avocations and join in the religious exercises
of the day.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set
my hand and caused to be affixed the
[l. s.] great seal of the State of Florida. Done
168 THANKSGIVING PEOCLAMATIONS.
at the Capitol, in the city of Tallahassee,
this third day of November, Anno Domi-
ni one thousand eight hundred and fifty-
eight.
MADISON S. PERRY.
By the Governor — Attest,
F. L. ViLLEPiGUE, Secretary of State.
■
\
V
TIIAXKSGIVIXG PROCLAMATIONS. 169
PROCLAMATION
By Ishain G. Harris, Governor of the State
of Tennessee.
To all the People of said State, greeting:
WHEREAS, It has pleased an All-wise Provi-
dence, to bestow upon our State peace,
health, and prosperity, and to continue to us our
civil and religious liberty, under those free in-
stitutions vouchsafed to us by the same power,
and in conformity to a commendable usage
among Christian nations, I, Isham G. Harris,
Governor as aforesaid, do hereby appoint Thurs-
day, the twenty-fifth instant, as a day of Thanks-
giving and Praise, and earnestly invoke the
People throughout the State to observe it as
such.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto set
my hand and caused the great Seal of the
State to be affixed at the office in Nash-
[l. s ] ville, on the eighth day of November,
Anno Domini one thousand eight hun-
dred and fifty-eight.
ISHAM G. HARRIS.
By the Governor.
J. E. R. Ray, Secretary of State.
22
170 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By Ililand Hall, Governor of the State of
Vermont.
^UR New England ancestors v^ere deeply im-
bued with a religious feeling of dependence
upon an Overruling Providence. While th(?y
diligently pursued the means which labor and
skill could furnish for the accomplishment of
their lawful undertakings, they felt their best
efforts to be vain unless aided and sanctioned
by the divine favor. They were accordingly
ever ready to give thanks and praise to their
Heavenly Father for all their enjoyments. The
productions of the earth were among the richest
of their temporary blessings, and when these
had been harvested and a sufficient supply for
the ensuing year was found to have been ga-
thered and secured, a peculiar occasion seemed
to be furnished for the manifestation of grati-
tude to Him whose mercies had rendered the
season propitious and crowned the labors of the
husbandman with success. Hence the early
custom of setting apart a day towards the close
of each year for a public religious festival of
, Thanksgiving and Praise. This custom was
adopted in this State on the first formation of
TIIAXKSGIYING PROCLAMATIONS. Ill
its government and has been invariably follow-
ed to the present time, and is one well worthy
to be perpetuated ,
In accordance with this approved and revered
custom, I do hereby appoint Thursday, the
second day of December next, a day of Public
Thanksgiving and Praise throughout this State.
Ministers and people of every denomination
are requested to suspend all unnecessary labor
on that day, and in their respective places of
worship, with a spirit of humility and gratitude
becoming the occasion, to render thanks to
God and proclaim his praises for all the mercies
both temporal and spiritual, which he has
hitherto been pleased to bestow upon us; espe-
cially for his great kindness to the people of this
State in continuing to them a constitution of
government which secures liberty and equality
of rights, and freedom of faith and opinion to
all; for the abundance of the fruits of the earth
with which the labors of the husbandman have
been rewarded, and the general measure of
health and prosperity that have attended us the
past season; for the means with which we are
favored of obtaining and profiting by intellect-
ual, moral, and religious instruction ; for the
many wonderful discoveries and inventions
which the ingenuity of man is constantly per-
mitted to make for bettering the physical and
social condition of our race, by increasing the
I
172 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
comforts and conveniences of life and rendering
tliem more easily attainable, by constructing
pathways through the atmosphere and along
the depths of the ocean for the transmission of
knowledge with lightning speed from one
country to another, bringing the nations of the
earth into nearer and more kindly contact, and
promising eventually, by encircling them all
in one continuous chain, to bind them together
in perpetual peace and harmony — and finally,
for the Christian hope, which is vouchsafed to
us of a blessed immortality.
And while in the celebration of this time
honored festival we are assembled around the
family board, exchanging our mirthful con-
gratulations with kindred and friends, over
bountiful repasts, let our hearts be expanded
with enlarged benevolence towards those to
whom the favors of Providence may have been
dispensed with a more sparing hand. Let our
enjoyments be enhanced by the reflection that
the sons and daughters of want and suffering
have not been forgotten by us, but have been
sought out and cared for. So shall the day be
made one of joy and gladness to all — a heart-
felt Thanksgiving throughout the length and
breadth of the land.
Given under my hand and the seal of this
State, in the Executive Chamber, at
Montpelier, this eight day of November,
V
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 173
in the year of our Lord one thousand
[l. s.] eight hundred and fifty-eight, and of the
Independence of the United States, the
eighty-third.
HILAND HALL.
By the Governor.
Wilbur P. Davis, Secretary
of Civil and Military Affairs.
174: THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By Peter F. Causey, Governor of the State
of Delaware.
Delaware, ss. In the name and by the au-
thority of the State of Delaware, Peter F.
Causev, Governor of the said State:
mi /
^ELLOW CITIZENS :
It is but a just tribute of a grateful people
to offer thanks to an Almighty Providence for
the many and signal blessings which have
been extended to them and for the watchful
care which has guarded and protected them as
a nation.
Our people and nation are among the most
favored of the earth, in many respects we are
the " peculiar people " of God's Providence ;
liberty in its best and truest sense is the inherit-
ance of every citizen, and our growth and pro-
gress are without a parallel in the history of the
world ; flourishing towns and villages now
stand where but a short time since the wilder-
ness held undisputed sway ; and the noise of
machinery and the hum of industry have dis-
placed the silence of the forest — older nations
are astonished at our rapid advancement and
we are already recognized and respected as one
of the most important powers of the earth.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 175
Amid the blessings which have so signally
marked the progress of our common country,
our own State has received her share; pesti-
lence and famine are unknown within hef bor-
ders ; a bountiful return repays the labor of the
husbandman ; our people are contented, pros-
perous and happy. In view of these blessings,
and in conformity with established usage and
the wishes of many citizens,
I, Peter F. Causey, Governor of the State of
Delaware, do hereby recommend Thursday,
the twenty-fifth instant, as a day of General
Thanksgiving and Praise throughout the State,
and request the people, that, abstaining from
all worldly occupations, they assemble in their
respective places of worship, and give most
humble and hearty thanks to Him who holds
in his hand the destinies of nations as of indi-
viduals.
Given under my hand and the great seal
of the State of Delaware, at Dover, this
ninth day of November, in the year of
[l. s.] our Lord one thousand eight hundred
and fifty-eight, and of the Independence
of the said State, the eighty-third.
P. F. CAUSEY.
By the Governor.
J. R. LoFLAND, Secretary of State.
176 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By William A. Richardson, Governor of
the Territory of Nebraska.
Executive Office, )
Omaha, N. T., Nov. 10, 1S58. )
William A. Richardson, Governor of the
9 Territory of Nebraska, issue this my Pro-
clamation, setting apart Saturday, the fourth
day of December, Anno Domini one thousand
eight hundred and fifty-eight, as a day of Pray-
er and Thanksgiving to Almighty God, for the
manifold blessings which, in his great goodness
and mercy, he has bestowed upon this people.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto set
my hand and caused to be affixed the
[l. s.] great seal of the Territory.
WM. A. RICHARDSON.
By the Governor.
J. Sterling Morton, Secretary of Nebraska.
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 177
PROCLAMATION
By Thomas Bragg, Governor of the State
of North Carolina.
"VVThereas, by an act of the General Assembly
' ' it is made the duty of the Governor of
the State for the time being, " to set apart a
day in every year, and to give notice thereof
by Proclamation, as a day of solemn and Pub-
lic Thanksgiving to Almighty God for past
blessings, and of supplication for his continual
kindness and care over us, as a State and as a
Nation."-^
Now, therefore, I do, by this my Proclama-
tion, appoint and set apart Thursday, the
twenty-fifth day of November next, as such
day, and do most respectfully and earnestly re-
commend that it be observed accordingly by
all the good people of this State.
Given under my hand, and attested by the
great seal of the State. Done at the
[l. s.] city of Raleigh, this, the fourth day of
November, Anno Domini one thousand
eight hundred and fifly-eight.
THOMAS BRAGG.
By the Governor.
Pulaski Cowper, Pr. Secretary.
* Passed in 1848. Revised Code, eh. 53, sec. 23, p. 315.
23
178 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS.
PROCLAMATION
By James G. Berret, Mayor of Washington
City, D. C*
rilHE City Council having by a joint resolution,
-^ appointed Tliursday, the twenty-fifth in-
stant, as a day of Thanksgiving and Prayer,
I have approved of the act, and deem it my
duty to give an official announcement of the
same by this, my Proclamation. The observ-
ance of a day of Thanksgiving at this season
of the year is sanctioned by time-honored
custom, and is peculiarly becoming a Christian
community. The blessings which are conti-
nually vouchsafed to us demand that we should
occasionally turn aside from our daily avoca-
tions, and as it were, sanctify a secular day by
* Joint Resolution appoint-, "fore united with many of
ing a day of Public Thanks- " the States of the Union in
givii^g: "this public expression of
" Whereas, It is becoming " devout and grateful hearts
"in a favored people to re- "with peculiar acceptance
" turn thanks to the Giver " by her citizens. Therefore
"of All Good for the mani- "Resolved, by the Board
" fold blessin"cs he vouch- " of Aldermen and Boai'd of
■t)'
" safes them as a communi- " Common Council of the city
" ty ; and whereas, the city " of Washington, That the
"of Washington has hereto- "Mayor is hereby requested
THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATIONS. 179
iiiiited and heartfelt manifestations of grati-
tude, by prayerful reflection, and by contrite
supplication.
In order to give due effect and solemnity to
the occasion, every good citizen is invoked to
contribute something of example and precept
toward the fulfillment of the duties which pro-
perly belong to the day; and to this end I re-
commend that the ordinary pursuits of business
be suspended, and that all denominations as-
semble in their respective places of worship to
render thanks to i\lmighty God for his bound-
less mercies, and to offer up supplications for a
continuance of our civic and our national pros-
perity.
Given under my hand, at the city of Wash-
ington, this thirteenth day of November,
[l. s.] in the year of our Lord one thousand
eight hundred and fifty-eight.
JAMES G. BERRET.
" to set apart, by Public Pro- " expression to the gratitude
" clamation, Thursday, the " of the people.
" twenty-fifth instant, as a " Resolved, That the keep,
"day of Thanksgiving and " ers of taverns, restaurants
"Praise to Almighty God, " and refectories, be request-
" inviting all the inhabitants " ed to close their houses on
" of the city to abstain from " said day, and that the May.
"their usual secular employ- "or be requested to direct
"ments, and the reverend " the police oflBcers to report
"clergy to unite in such "the names of the keepers
" manner as they may deem " of all such houses who shall
" most appropriate in giving " refuse to close them."
INDEX.
Page.
Aliiston, Robert F. W., Gov'r of South Carolina, 1858, 1G5
Banks, Nathaniel P., Gov'r of Massachusetts, . . 1858, 159
Berret, Jas. G., Mayor of Washington, D. C.,. . 1858, ItS
Bingham, Kinsley S., Governor of Michigan. .. . 1858, 142
Bissell, Wm. H., Governor of Illinois, 1858, 144
Bouck, Wm. 0., Governor of New York, 1843, 96
do do. do 1844, 98
Boudinot, Elias, President of Congress, 1183, 23
Bragg, Thomas, Governor of, North Carolina,. . 1858, lit
Brown, Joseph E., Governor of Georgia 1858, 161
Buckingham, Wm. A., Governor of Connecticut, 1858, 131
Causey, Peter F., Governor of Delaware, 1858, 114
Chase, Salmon P., Governor of Ohio, 1858, 163
Clark, Myron H., Governor of New York, 1855, 119
do do do 1856, 121
Clinton, De Witt, Governor of New York, 1817, 47
do do do 1818, 49
do do do 1819, 50
do do do 1820, 52
do do do 1821, 54
do do do 1822, 56
do do do 1825, 61
do do do 1826, 63
do do do 1827, 65
Clinton, George, Governor of New York, 1782, 20
Colden, Cadwallader, 1760, 2
Colonial Proclamation, 1760, 1
182 INDEX.
Committee of States, 1184
Congress, Continental, Proclamations by, 111*1
do do do 1118
do do do ..... 1119
do do do 1180
do do do 1181
do do do 1182
do do ' do 1183
Congress, Resolutions of, 1815
Conquest of Canada, 1160
Dyer, Elisha, Governor of Rhode Island, 1858
Fish, Hamilton, Governor of New York, 1849
do do do 1850
Haile, Wm., Governor of New Hampshire, .... 1858
Hall, Hiland, Governor of Vermont, 1858
Harris, Isham G., Governor of Tennessee, 1858
Hicks, Thomas H., Governor of Maryland, 1858
_Hunt, Washington, Governor of New York, . . . 1851
do do do 1852
Huntington, Samuel, President of Congress,. . . 1119
Jay, John, Governor of New York, 1195
King, John A.^ Governor of New York, 1851
do do do 1858
Laurens, Henry, Letter to Governor Clinton,. . . 1111
Laurens, Henry, President of Congress, 1118
Legislature of New York, upon the Peace of. . 1815
Lowe, Ralph P., Governor of Iowa, . , 1858
McKean, Thomas, President of Congress, 1181
McWillie, Wm., Governor of Mississippi,. .... . 1858
Madison, James, upon the Peace of 1815
Marcy, Wm. L., Governor of New York, 1833
do do do 1834
do do do 1835
do do do 1836
do do do 1831
do do do 1838
Moore, Andrew B., Governor of Alabama, 1858
Pago.
26
4
8
11
14
16
20
23
36
2
135
110
112
133
110
169
151
114
115
11
43
124
126
1
8
41
153
16
158
31
18
80
81
83
84
86
128
INDEX. 183
Pago.
Morrill, Lott M., Governor of Maine, 1858, 131
National Thanksgivings, 30
Newell, Wm. A., Governor of New Jersey,. . . . 1858, 139
Packer, Wm. F., Governor of Pennsylvania,. . . 1858, 141
Peace of 1815, President's Proclamation, 31
do Governor of New York, 41
Perry, Madison S., Governor of Florida, 1858, 161
Pitcher, Nathaniel, Lt. Governor of New York, 1828, 07
Randall, Alexander W., Governor of Wisconsin, 1858, 145
Revolutionary Proclamations, 4
Richardson, Wm. A., Governor of Nebraska, . . . 1858, 116
Seward, Wm. H., Governor of New York, 1839, 88
do do . do 1840, 90
do do do 1841, 93
do do do 1842, 94
Seymour, Horatio, Governor of New York,. . . . 1853, 111
do do do 1854, 118
Sibley, Henry H., Governor of Minnesota, 1858, 150
Stewart, Robert M., Governor of Missouri,. . . . 1858, 155
Tompkins, D. D., Gov'r of New York (Peace), 1815, 41
Throop, Enos T., Lt. Governor of New York, . . 1829, 69
do do Governor do 1830, 11
do do do 1831, 14
do do do 1832, 16
Washington, George, President, 1189, 30
do do do 1195, 33
Willard, Ashbel P., Governor of Indiana, 1858, 141
Wright, Silas, Governor of New York, 1845. 100
do do do 1846, 103
Yates, Joseph C, Governor of New York, 1823, 58
do do do 1824, 60
young, John, Governor of New York, 1841, 106
do do do 1848, 108
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